China fires dummy warhead from submarine

China carried out a long-range missile launch on July 9, 2026, firing a dummy warhead from a nuclear-powered submarine, officials said. Defence analysts said the test was the country's first long-range missile trial in two years and that assessments show Beijing has substantially expanded its nuclear forces over the past six years.

Submarine-launched missile test

Officials said the launch was the first time a long-range rocket of this type was fired from a nuclear-powered submarine. Defence analysts said the move signals a push to diversify delivery methods and increase survivable second-strike capability by embedding long-range missiles at sea.

Analysts pointed to parallel assessments that describe a rapid buildup in warhead stockpiles and missile infrastructure, which they say accelerates strategic competition in the region. Officials cautioned that a dummy warhead does not demonstrate operational readiness but does test launch procedures, command-and-control links, and submarine launch logistics.

Governments and military planners are expected to monitor naval patrols, satellite imagery releases, and official statements in the coming week. Watch for formal responses or additional launches by July 16, 2026, which would shape diplomatic and defence reactions across the region.