U.S. Criticizes China’s SLBM Test, Urges Participation in Arms Control Talks

The U.S. Donald Trump administration criticized China on July 6 (local time) for test-firing a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) toward the Pacific Ocean and urged Beijing to participate in arms control discussions.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott issued a statement that day titled "China Launches Nuclear-Capable Ballistic Missile into the Pacific," stating, "The United States monitored the People's Republic of China's test launch of an unarmed intercontinental-range ballistic missile from a submarine into the South Pacific."

He further criticized Beijing, saying, "At a time when the United States is working harder than ever to prevent nuclear proliferation, China is moving in the opposite direction. The rapid and opaque expansion of China's nuclear arsenal is a source of great concern for the region and the world."

Spokesperson Pigott stated, "We continue to urge the PRC to engage in meaningful arms control discussions and to establish a regular notification system for all intercontinental-range ballistic missile and space launch vehicle launches, consistent with the commitments made by all other P5 members."

He also emphasized, "The United States remains steadfast in its defense commitments to our allies and partners."

China announced that it had successfully launched one "submarine-launched strategic missile" equipped with a dummy training warhead into international waters in the Pacific Ocean on July 6 (local time).

The Chinese Navy explained that the missile test was a routine part of its annual military training schedule and that relevant countries had been notified in advance.

The Chinese Navy further stated that the launch was not directed at any specific country or target.

Neighboring countries also voiced their opposition and criticism.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara stated at a regular briefing that day that while there were no reports of the missile passing over Japanese territory or its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), nor any damage to Japanese aircraft or vessels, he pointed out, "Such military trends by China, characterized by a lack of transparency, are a matter of serious concern for Japan and the international community."

Taiwan strongly criticized China's SLBM test in the international waters of the Pacific, calling it an act that threatens the international community and heightens regional tensions.

Taiwanese Presidential Office spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui stated that day, "Following its recent series of increased military pressure around the island chains, China is now threatening the international community with an intercontinental ballistic missile test. We strongly condemn this series of unilateral actions."

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