BEIJING –
China says it has successfully intercepted a missile in flight in a test of an anti-ballistic missile system that could improve its defenses while insisting on its territorial claims.
A brief statement from the Ministry of Defense late Sunday did not provide details, but said the test was purely defensive in nature and not aimed at foreign nations.
Missiles are a major component of China’s defense and are the backbone of its space program, which launches astronauts and components into the nation’s orbital space station.
The missile interception test comes as China escalates threats against the self-governing island of Taiwan, which Beijing claims is its own territory that will be annexed by military force if necessary. The conflict over Taiwan is likely to lead to the United States, which is the main source of weapons for the island and is legally obliged to view threats to it as a matter of “serious concern”.
China is also involved in territorial disputes with the Philippines, Vietnam and other governments over the South China Sea.
China is believed to have supported Russia in its invasion of Ukraine, although it is not known to have provided material support. The conflict has drawn new attention to Taiwan and whether it can withstand a Chinese attack.
Chinese military expert Song Zhongping said China had conducted similar tests in the past, but was trying to make a point by announcing the latest.
“The reasons China has made it public are because of military transparency and the effective deterrence of some countries,” Song said.
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