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China successfully test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean, marking the first time in over 40 years that such a test landed in international waters.

What’s the deal: According to Chinese state media, the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force launched a new ICBM that carried a “dummy” warhead at 8:44 AM on Tuesday. According to the Chinese state-controlled media outlet Xinhua, China “tested weaponry performance and military training effectiveness and achieved desired goals.”

The PLA also released a brief statement saying the rocket “landed in a predetermined area of the high seas.” They added, “This test launch is a routine arrangement in our annual training plan. It is in line with international law and international practice and is not directed against any country or target.”

China has not provided information on where the missile landed or its exact trajectory. However, the Pacific Centre for Island Security said the ICBM was launched from Hainan Island and flew roughly 7,400 miles (and landed near French Polynesia). In addition, Chinese military analysts said the test was either a DF-31 or a DF-41 ICBM.

Digging Deeper: Despite claiming the test was “routine,” many analysts have noted that China has not “knowingly” carried out an ICBM test in the Pacific Ocean. Back in May of 1980, China tested a DF-5, which flew roughly 5,590 miles.