July 6 was the first time that China has launched a submarine-launched ballistic missile into international waters. On July 6 China tested a submarine-launched intercontinental ballistic missile into the South China Sea. A PLA statement after the test claimed that “the missile test was a routine part of China’s annual military training program, and relevant countries had been notified in advance.” July 6 was the first time that China has launched a submarine-launched ballistic missile into international waters, and only its the second launch of a ballistic missile into international waters since 1980. You can subscribe to The Diplomat’s Asia Geopolitics podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify; and watch the episode on YouTube.