China has sent coast guard vessels to patrol the Pacific Ocean east of Taiwan and test-fired a submarine-launched ballistic missile from the South China Sea. Experts say these maneuvers are part of China's efforts to deter others from challenging its territorial claims. The coast guard vessels have been present in the area since May, and their continued presence is seen as a long-term exercise.
The submarine-launched missile test, which carried a simulated training warhead for 7,300 kilometers, was likely meant to warn multiple countries of China's nuclear capabilities. Analysts say the test was probably timed to coincide with the 13th China-Russia Joint Sea 2026 exercise, and that such launches may become periodic but rare.
The tests are part of China's efforts to demonstrate its military capabilities and deter rivals in the region. The US, Japan, and other countries have responded with statements of protest, and the situation is likely to continue to escalate.
