China tests land-based missile interception system

• China conducted a land-based missile interception test that “achieved its expected purpose,” Defense Ministry says.
• The most recent public disclosure of a test was made in February 2021, and prior to that, in 2018.
• China has undertaken anti-missile system tests since at least 2010.

China conducted a land-based missile interception test that “achieved its expected purpose,” as per the Defense Ministry, adding that the test was defensive and not aimed at any nation.

As part of an ambitious modernization programme directed by President Xi Jinping, China has intensified research on all types of missiles, including those that can destroy satellites in orbit and upgrade nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles.

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China has undertaken anti-missile system tests since at least 2010, according to state media.

The ministry announced in a brief statement late on Sunday evening that a test of “ground-based midcourse anti-missile intercept technology” had been conducted that evening.

“The test reached its expected goals,” the ministry stated.”This test was defensive and not aimed at any country.”

It offered no further information.

China and its partner Russia have frequently opposed the deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system in South Korea by the United States.

China asserted that the equipment’s strong radar could potentially enter its country.

Additionally, China and Russia have conducted simulated anti-missile drills.

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