Why China’s first submarine missile test in 43 years is ringing nuclear alarm bells

 China launched a ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine into the Pacific Ocean on Monday, marking its first known submarine-launched ballistic missile test since 1982. The launch showcased the operational readiness of China’s sea-based nuclear force, which forms one leg of the country’s nuclear triad alongside land-based missiles and air-delivered nuclear weapons. China launched a ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine into the Pacific Ocean on Monday, marking its first known submarine-launched ballistic missile test since 1982. The launch showcased the operational readiness of China’s sea-based nuclear force, which forms one leg of the country’s nuclear triad alongside land-based missiles and air-delivered nuclear weapons.