China launched a long-range ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean on Monday, as reported by state media. The test has drawn criticism from U.S. allies worried about China’s growing military activities in the region. The missile, equipped with a dummy warhead, was fired from a nuclear-powered submarine at 12:01 p.m. local time. Xinhua, the state-run news agency, noted the missile landed precisely within designated waters, though specifics on location and type were not disclosed.

This marks China’s first test of its kind since 2024, when it fired an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific for the first time in over four decades. Xinhua stated the People’s Liberation Army Navy identified the launch as part of routine annual training, asserting it was not aimed at any country or target. Officials remarked that the test adhered to international laws, with prior notifications to relevant nations. The foreign ministry urged countries not to exaggerate the situation.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong highlighted prior notice of the test but criticized it as destabilizing to the region. “Australia has been clear that this proposed test is part of China’s quick military build-up, lacking transparency and reassurance expected by the region,” she stated during a visit to Fiji. The visit coincided with the signing of a significant defense alliance, aiming to curb China’s regional influence.

Japan’s government received prior notification from Chinese authorities regarding potential space debris within its exclusive economic zone. Kyodo news agency reported Japan’s “serious concern” over the test, although the missile landed outside its exclusive zone.

New Zealand labeled the test as “unwelcome and concerning.” Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters emphasized, “We, like our neighbors in other Pacific countries, have no interest in China using the South Pacific as a testing site for missile capability.”