SHANGHAI (Reuters – China’s land-based missile interception tests “achieved their expected purpose”, said the Defence Ministry. The test was defensive and wasn’t aimed towards any country.

China is increasing its research on all types of missiles. These range from missiles that destroy satellites in orbit to more advanced, nuclear-tipped missiles. This part of President Xi Jinping’s ambitious modernisation plan.

Beijing has previously tested missile interceptors. The most recent public announcement about a test took place in February 2021 and in 2018, respectively. China’s anti-missile systems tests have been reported by state media since 2010.

In a short statement, the ministry stated that “ground-based anti-missile intercept technology test” was completed that night.

The ministry stated that the test had achieved its goals. The ministry stated that the test was only defensive in nature and wasn’t aimed at any specific country.

Other details were not provided.

China and its allies Russia have consistently opposed the U.S. deployment in South Korea of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense Anti-missile System (THAAD).

China claimed that the radar’s power could allow it to penetrate its territory. Russia and China have both conducted anti-missile simulations.

China is not providing much information about its missile programs, except for brief statements made by the Defence Ministry and state media.

The Defence Ministry said in 2016 that they were continuing with tests for anti-missile technology after images appeared on state television.

Beijing claims such technology is necessary for national defense and security.