China sea test signals new norm

NEW NORMAL: Based on China’s pattern of showcasing its nuclear strike capabilities, the PLA could conduct an air-launched missile test around next year, the researcher said By Aaron Tu and Sam Garcia / Staff reporter, with staff writer China’s test launch of a long-range ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine into the Pacific on Monday last week could be a sign that Beijing is seeking to create a new “status quo” in the region in which it conducts similar tests more frequently or on a regular basis, Taiwan Inspiration Association researcher Joseph Wen (溫約瑟) said. The test-launch likely approached the missile’s maximum range if it was China’s second-generation JL-2 intercontinental-range submarine-launched ballistic missile, but would have been a developmental test if it was the