China conducted a long-range missile test featuring a dummy nuclear warhead in the South Pacific on Monday, drawing widespread criticism from Australia, the United States, and Pacific Island nations. The missile reportedly landed near the island nations of Nauru and Tuvalu. The test occurred shortly after Australia formalized a significant defense agreement with Fiji.

China described the missile launch as a routine exercise, despite it being only the second such test in four decades. Chinese officials emphasized that advance notice had been given to concerned countries and urged the international community not to “over-interpret” the event. A Chinese state media outlet asserted that critics would need to accept China’s increasing military capabilities as an inevitable development.

The missile was launched from a Chinese nuclear-powered submarine in waters off the South Pacific, marking a significant demonstration of Beijing’s expanding naval and nuclear capabilities in the region. The test has raised alarm among regional and global governments, with the United States labeling it “provocative” and expressing concern over China’s accelerating and opaque nuclear weapons program.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the test as destabilizing for the Pacific region, confirming that Canberra lodged a formal protest with Beijing. He stressed the importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability in the area. Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, speaking as chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, also criticized the test, describing it as inconsistent with China’s role as a “good friend” to the Pacific nations and stating he had conveyed his objections to Chinese authorities.

The U.S. State Department highlighted the inconsistency of China’s actions with global efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation, emphasizing the heightened risks posed by Beijing’s growing arsenal. Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong warned that the test exacerbates the potential for miscalculations in a tense security environment.

Opposition Leader Angus Taylor called for increased Australian defense spending, proposing a rise to three percent of GDP on defense as a response to what he described as provocations stemming from perceived weakness.

The test underscores ongoing tensions in the Pacific region amid expanding Chinese military influence, raising concerns among regional partners and allies about stability and the future balance of power in the area.