China Missile Testing
Taiwan expresses concern over China testing hypersonic missiles, Beijing denies
Taiwan’s defense ministry has said it is monitoring China's suspected testing of hypersonic missiles.
British newspaper Financial Times reported China tested a nuclear-capable hypersonic missile in August that circled the globe before speeding towards its target, demonstrating an advanced space capability that caught US intelligence by surprise.
Five people familiar with the test told the newspaper the Chinese military launched a rocket that carried a hypersonic glide vehicle which flew through low-orbit space before cruising down towards its target
Taiwan’s defense ministry spokesperson Shih Shun-wen told Taiwan News on Tuesday that the military will find ways to deal with this threat.
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Monday declined to comment on a report claiming that China tested a nuclear-capable hypersonic missile in August.
"I'm not going to comment on the specific report," Psaki said when asked if she could confirm the report that China tested a nuclear-capable hypersonic missile this summer that surprised US officials.
Psaki reiterated Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's earlier statement about the matter, underscoring US concerns about China's military capabilities it continues to pursue.
Moreover, Psaki said the United States welcomes stiff competition but does not want that competition to veer into conflict and the Biden administration has conveyed that message to China privately as well.
China denies:
China has denied the claim that it tested the missile.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said: "As we understand, this was a routine test of spacecraft to verify technology of spacecraft's reusability. It is of great significance to reducing the cost of using spacecraft and providing a convenient and cheap way for mankind's two-way transportation in the peaceful use of space. Several companies around the world have conducted similar tests."
"After separating from the spacecraft before its return, the supporting devices will burn up when it's falling in the atmosphere and the debris will fall into the high seas. China will work with other countries in the world for the peaceful use of space for the benefit of mankind," he said.
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