China's Pacific Provocation: A Pattern of Escalation in the Indo Pacific The recent missile test by China in the Pacific Ocean has sent shockwaves across the region, with US officials condemning Beijing for its "provocative" and "destabilising" actions.
The test was significant not only because it involved a long range ballistic missile being launched from a nuclear powered submarine but also because it came amidst growing concerns about China's rapidly expanding nuclear programme.
The US State Department has repeatedly urged Beijing to engage in meaningful arms control talks and establish regular notification arrangements for intercontinental range ballistic missile and space launches.