Beijing: China test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean on Wednesday, marking its first such exercise in decades. The rare launch has drawn sharp reactions from neighboring countries, particularly Japan, which expressed "serious concern" about China's growing military capabilities.

China's Rocket Force conducted the missile launch, which carried a dummy warhead, at 8:44 a.m. on September 25. The missile fell into designated sea areas in the Pacific, according to the Chinese defense ministry, which described the test as part of its "routine" annual training program. Beijing emphasized that the exercise complied with international law and was not targeted at any specific country.

However, Japan protested the launch, saying it had received no prior notice from China. A Japanese government spokesman expressed concerns over China's military expansion, which has been accelerating in recent years. Similarly, New Zealand described the missile launch as "unwelcome and concerning" and vowed to consult with Pacific allies for further information.

This test marks a rare move by China, with experts noting it as the first of its kind since the 1980s. Ankit Panda, Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, described the test as "extremely unusual" and a likely indication of China's ongoing nuclear modernization efforts.

China has significantly boosted its defense spending and nuclear development in recent years. The Pentagon estimated that Beijing held over 500 operational nuclear warheads as of May 2023, with projections of that number exceeding 1,000 by 2030. China's nuclear arsenal is now the third-largest globally, after the United States and Russia.

Despite rising tensions, China has historically maintained a "no first use" nuclear policy since its first atomic test in 1964. However, under President Xi Jinping, the country has ramped up efforts to modernize its military, with increased focus on upgrading its nuclear capabilities.

The missile launch comes amid strained U.S.-China relations, particularly over issues like Taiwan and regional security. While both nations have engaged in recent talks to ease tensions, ongoing disputes over arms sales and nuclear proliferation continue to hinder broader cooperation.

China's Rocket Force, which oversees the nation's nuclear arsenal, has also faced internal issues, including an anti-corruption campaign that led to the dismissal of high-ranking officials, including former defense minister Li Shangfu.

Regional powers, including Japan and the U.S., remain wary of China's growing military reach, as the country continues to enhance its defense capabilities amid rising global tensions.