China launches nuclear-capable missile into Pacific Ocean in first test of its kind for 40yrs in major warning to West

CHINA has launched a nuclear-capable missile into the Pacific Ocean, the first test in 40 years in a major warning to the West.

The ICBM was launched by the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force and carried a dummy warhead, China said.

Reuters

Military vehicles carrying DF-41 intercontinental ballistic missiles in a Beijing parade[/caption]

AP

Spectators wave Chinese flags near DF-41 nuclear ballistic missiles[/caption]

The test was held just before 2am Wednesday morning UK time.

The Chinese defence ministry said in a statement the rocket “fell into expected sea areas,” and that it was a “routine arrangement in our annual training plan”.

It said the test was not directed at any country or target.

China “informed the countries concerned in advance,” and said it fell into the “high seas of the Pacific Ocean”, one report claimed.

A Japan Coast Guard official said it had received a navigation warning from China on Monday for “space debris”.

The warning identified three zones in the South China Sea, the Pacific north of the Philippines’ Luzon island, and in the South Pacific.

More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online

Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.

Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun.