The United States has voiced serious concern over China’s rapidly expanding nuclear capabilities following Beijing’s recent test launch of a long-range, nuclear-capable missile from a submarine into the Pacific Ocean. Washington said the development underscores growing regional and global security challenges while renewing calls for greater transparency and arms control dialogue.
According to the US State Department, China’s “rapid and opaque” buildup of nuclear weapons remains a major concern. Spokesperson Tommy Pigott stated that while the US is working to prevent nuclear proliferation, China appears to be moving in the opposite direction by significantly strengthening its strategic nuclear forces.
China confirmed that it successfully test-fired a long-range strategic missile carrying a dummy warhead from one of its nuclear-powered submarines. Beijing described the launch as part of its routine annual military training and maintained that the exercise complied with international law.
The missile launch has also drawn criticism from several Indo-Pacific nations, including Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Taiwan. Regional leaders expressed concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding the exercise and warned that such actions could further heighten tensions in the Pacific.
The US reiterated its commitment to the defense of its allies and urged China to engage in meaningful arms control discussions. Washington also called on Beijing to provide advance notification of future intercontinental-range missile and space launches, in line with commitments made by the permanent members of the UN Security Council.
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