The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) carrying a dummy warhead into the high seas in the Pacific Ocean on Wednesday, according to the Ministry of National Defence.

The Chinese military's "Rocket Force launched an ICBM... carrying a dummy warhead to the high seas in the Pacific Ocean at 08:44 on September 25, and the missile fell into expected sea areas", the ministry said in a statement.

The defence ministry called the firing 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," it said.

The ministry added that the missile fell into expected sea areas and relevant countries had been notified in advance.

It noted that the launch tested weaponry performance as well as military training effectiveness, and achieved desired goals. (Xinhua)