China Launches Submarine-Fired Intercontinental Ballistic Missile into Pacific as US Objects on Nuclear Power

· Missile Test Conducted: China launched an unarmed intercontinental-range ballistic missile (ICBM) from a submarine, which landed in the southern Pacific Ocean.

· U.S. Monitoring: The United States stated that it closely monitored the missile test.

· Date of Statement: The U.S. issued its official statement on July 6, 2026.

· Nuclear Concerns: Washington expressed concern over China's rapid and opaque expansion of its nuclear weapons program.

· Non-Proliferation: The U.S. said the test contrasts with its ongoing efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation.

· Call for Arms Control: The U.S. urged China to participate in meaningful arms control discussions.

· Launch Notification Request: Washington called on Beijing to establish a regular notification system for all intercontinental-range ballistic missile and space launches, in line with commitments followed by other P5 (permanent UN Security Council) members.

· Alliance Assurance: The U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to the defense of its allies and partners in the region.

[ABS News Service/07.07.2026]

The United States monitored China’s test launch from a submarine of an unarmed intercontinental-range ballistic missile, which landed in the southern Pacific Ocean.

At a time when the United States is working harder than ever to prevent nuclear proliferation, China is doing the opposite. Beijing’s rapid and opaque nuclear weapons buildup is of great concern to the region and the world. We continue to urge China to engage in meaningful arms control discussions and commit to a regularized notification arrangement for all intercontinental-range ballistic missile and space launches consistent with commitments made by all other P5 members.

The United States remains steadfast in our defense commitments to our allies and partners.