China tests submarine-launched nuclear missile in Pacific

China conducted a test launch of a nuclear-capable ballistic missile from a submarine into the South Pacific on Monday, July 6, 2026, drawing criticism from regional governments. The launch occurred the same day Australia and Fiji signed a new mutual defense treaty.

The Chinese navy stated the missile, carrying a dummy warhead, was fired at 12:01 p.m. Beijing time from a strategic nuclear submarine and landed accurately in a predetermined area of international waters. Officials described the event as a routine part of annual military training, compliant with international law and not directed at any specific country. They added that relevant nations were notified in advance.

Australia, New Zealand, and Japan confirmed they had received prior notification. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, speaking from Suva, Fiji, stated that Australia views the test as destabilizing to the region. She linked the action to a rapid Chinese military buildup that lacks transparency and reassurance.

New Zealand's government noted it was informed hours before the launch and highlighted that the missile was fired into the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone, established by the 1986 Treaty of...