Global Upfront Newspapers
CoverWorld News

China denies it tested nuclear-capable hypersonic missile, says it was space vehicle

The Chinese Foreign ministry on Monday denied reports that it tested a nuclear-capable hypersonic missile this summer, and said it was in fact a reusable space vehicle. 

“It was not a missile, it was a space vehicle,” ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said at a press conference, according to Reuters

Lijian added that the flight was a “routine” test of the ability to reuse the vehicle and noted that should it be successful, it could offer a relatively cheap and easy way for people to go to space.

“Many companies in the world have carried out similar experiments,” Zhao said, according to CNN. “China will work together with other countries in the world to benefit mankind in the peaceful use of space,” he added.

On Saturday, the Financial Times had reported that China’s hypersonic missile “caught U.S. intelligence by surprise” after it flew through space and circled the globe before descending toward its target, which it missed by about two dozen miles. The newspaper also reported that the test was in August, but the foreign ministry said it in fact took place in July, Reuters added. 

Last month, North Korea said it successfully tested a hypersonic missile, while Russia reported earlier this month that it launched a hypersonic missile from the Severodvinsk submarine for the first time.

Hypersonic missiles can travel five times faster than the speed of sound, or Mach 5, allowing them to reach targets before being detected and shot down. 

Advertize With Us

See Also

Ezekwesili Knocks NIDCOM Boss, Dabiri-Erewa, Over ‘Messy’ Twitter Exchange

Global Upfront

Anarchy Threat: Peter Obi Replies Tinubu, Says Anarchy Reigns Supreme When Rule Of Law Is Trampled Upon Or Truncated

Global Upfront

We’ll Persuade President Buhari to Sack Service Chiefs – Senate Assures Nigerians

Global Upfront

COVID is harming sperm, Israeli researchers say, raising infertility worries

Global Upfront

Nigeria, Ghana move to end trade dispute, inaugurate parliamentary friendship group

Global Upfront

Nigeria’s Killing Fields: 6,931 Nigerians Killed in 10 Months of Tinubu Govt

Global Upfront

This website uses Cookies to improve User experience. We assume this is OK...If not, please opt-out! Accept Read More