China conducted a rare test of a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) in the Pacific Ocean on July 6, 2026, prompting criticism from New Zealand and Australia. The test, carried out by a Type 094 Jin-class nuclear submarine, involved launching a strategic missile with a dummy warhead into designated waters. The PLA Navy stated it was part of annual military training and adhered to international law. However, New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters called the test 'unwelcome and concerning,' noting it targeted the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone, which China signed in 1987. Australia's Penny Wong labeled the action 'destabilizing' and criticized China's lack of transparency. The JL-3 missile tested has a range capable of reaching the U.S., according to experts. This follows previous tests by China, including an ICBM launch in 2024. While other nuclear powers conduct similar tests, regional concerns persist over China's growing military capabilities and the normalization of such activities.

China conducted an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test from a submarine in the South Pacific on Monday, marking its first such launch in two years. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) stated the missile, carrying a dummy warhead, landed within designated waters but did not specify the location. Regional powers Australia and New Zealand condemned the test, with New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters calling it a threat to regional stability. The test occurred in the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone, a region governed by the Treaty of Rarotonga, which prohibits nuclear testing. Peters emphasized that China’s actions undermine the treaty’s purpose, as the zone spans from Australia to French Polynesia and includes New Zealand. Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong also criticized the test, linking it to China’s broader military buildup in the region. The move comes amid tensions over China’s growing influence in the Pacific, with Australia seeking to strengthen regional security partnerships. China has accused Canberra of fostering a 'Cold War mentality,' following recent diplomatic clashes. Separately, China began joint military exercises with Russia off the coast of Qingdao, further highlighting its strategic posturing.

Al Jazeera (Mar 27, 2026) and IAEA (2023) note rising Iranian capabilities; Jane's reports a ~40% rise in missile tests (2019–2025), raising regional risk and market premia.

ISLAMABAD, Dec 15 (NNN-APP) – Pakistan Navy, today successfully conducted a live weapon firing, of the extended-range surface-to-air missile in the North Arabian Sea, the military said in a statement. The Pakistan Navy ship, effectively engaged highly manoeuvrable aerial targets, during the firepower demonstration, reaffirming the navy’s war-fighting capability and combat readiness, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistani army, said in the statement. Commander of the Pakistan Fleet, Rear Admiral Abdul Munib, witnessed the live firing at sea, onboard a Pakistan Navy fleet unit, the statement said. The commander commended the officers and men involved […]

Aviation News – Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Air Force have successfully completed a separation test of the Stand-In Attack Weapon (SiAW) from an F-16, marking a major milestone in the missile’s path toward integration with next-generation combat aircraft. The test, conducted as part of an ongoing development program, evaluated the missile’s flight-safety characteristics and aerodynamic performance during release. The SiAW is being designed for compatibility with fifth-generation fighters such as the F-35, and the safe separation from the F-16 underscores its increasing design maturity.

Modified ballistic re-entry vehicle will play a key role in missile defense test demonstrations.