Open accessibility guideSkip to sections navigationSkip to contentSkip to footerAdvertisementNationalChina has test-launched a nuclear-capable missile in the South Pacific hours after Australia signed a new major defence deal to ward off Beijing’s influence in the region.Updated July 6, 2026 — 4:42pm,first published 4:38pmLoadingLatest in VideosVideo icon1:30England hang on for dramatic victoryVideo icon6:13Eddie Woo's top tips for HSC mathsVideo icon0:46Tensions rise as motorists get angry about Russia’s fuel shortageVideo icon1:30Haaland powers Norway to upset over BrazilAdvertisementTwitterFacebookInstagramRSSOur SitesThe AgeThe Sydney Morning HeraldBrisbane TimesWAtodayThe Australian Financial Reviewnine.com.auDriveClassifiedsTributesPlace your adThe AgeContact & supportAdvertise with usNewslettersAccessibility guideSitemapPhoto salesPurchase front pagesContent licensingWork with usTerms of usePrivacy policyPress CouncilCharter of Editorial IndependenceAI Editorial GuidelinesProducts & ServicesSubscription packagesMy accountSubscriber FAQsDelivery statusToday’s PaperGood Food GuideDaily PuzzlesCopyright © 2026Subscribe