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China
What's behind the summer lull in Chinese ballistic missile tests?

LogoSubscribers only By Jérémy André
2 min read Lire en français

A strategic Chinese missile test launch in the Pacific Ocean, on 6 July 2026.
A strategic Chinese missile test launch in the Pacific Ocean, on 6 July 2026. © Li Xiangchao/Xinhua News Agency/Newscom/MaxPPP

In recent years, analysts monitoring the launch tests carried out by the Chinese People's Liberation Army's nuclear unit have noted a sharp drop in activity in July and August. Government purges are suspected to be the main reason for the lull, but other factors could also be having an impact.

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