BEIJING — China said on Thursday that its launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean was 'legitimate and routine,' insisting that its nuclear stance remained defensive after the rare test prompted an outcry from countries in the region.
Beijing announced the trial on Wednesday — its first such test in four decades — saying the missile was carrying a dummy warhead.
CAUSING A COMMOTION The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Rocket Force launches an intercontinental ballistic missile carrying a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean at an undisclosed location on Sept. 25, 2024. PHOTO FROM THE PLA NEWS AND COMMUNICATION CENTER VIA AFP