China’s long-range ballistic missile test from sea, increased strategic concerns in Indo-Pacific; India-Australia expressed concern

New Delhi. Concern has once again increased at the international level regarding China’s military activities in the Indo-Pacific region. According to reports, China has test-fired a long-range ballistic missile from its nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). On this development, India and Australia have expressed concern about regional security and stability.

Issue raised in India-Australia talks

The issue was discussed during the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Australia. After the meeting, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the two leaders stressed the importance of maintaining peace, security and rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

What is the whole matter?

According to defense experts and public reports, China has JL-2 (Julang-2) Submarine Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) tested. It was reported that the missile had hit approximately 7,300 kilometers and its test payload was dropped in the sea area near the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific.

However, all the technical details of this test have not been made public by China and there is limited independent confirmation.

Why is this test considered important?

Experts believe that submarine-launched ballistic missiles are an important part of any country’s nuclear deterrence. Submarines deployed at sea are relatively difficult to detect, making such a capability considered extremely important from a strategic point of view.

According to prior reports from the US Defense Department, China has several nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, capable of carrying long-range nuclear-capable missiles.

Increased concern of regional countries

After this test, Australia, Japan and other Indo-Pacific countries have expressed concern over regional security. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said such military activities could increase tension in the region. At the same time, Japan also expressed its concern about this test and stressed the need for transparency.

expert opinion

Defense analysts say such tests demonstrate China’s sea-based nuclear capability. He believes that this may further intensify strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region and is likely to further strengthen security cooperation between regional countries.

India has consistently reiterated its stance that all countries in the Indo-Pacific region should maintain peace, stability, freedom of navigation and the rules-based order while respecting international laws.