China says it has successfully intercepted a missile in flight, in a test of an anti-ballistic missile system that could improve its defenses as it advances its territorial claims. A brief statement from the Ministry of Defense late Sunday did not provide details, but said the test was purely defensive in nature and did not target foreign nations. Rockets are an important component of China’s defense and are the backbone of its space program, which has launched astronauts and components into the country’s space station in orbit. The missile intercept test is being carried out as China escalates threats against the self-governing island of Taiwan, which Beijing claims is its own territory that will be annexed by military force if needed. A conflict over Taiwan would likely bring the United States, the island’s main source of weapons, and is legally obliged to consider the threats against it a matter of “serious concern”. China is also embroiled in territorial disputes with the Philippines, Vietnam and other governments over the South China Sea. China is believed to be supporting Russia in its invasion of Ukraine, although it is not known to have provided material support. The conflict has brought new attention to Taiwan and whether it could withstand a Chinese attack. Chinese military expert Song Zhongping said China had conducted such tests in the past, but sought to point out the latest. “The reasons why China is making it public are because of military transparency and effective deterrence in a country,” Song said.
