A Global Times article of May 10, 2017, cited a statement by China's Ministry of National Defense confirming that the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force had conducted an operational test for a new missile recently in the Bohai Sea, which had achieved the expected results. It said observers believe the test demonstrates that China's commitment to counterbalancing the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system is no empty bluff. It noted that just two weeks ago Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Yang Yujun had said that Beijing will continue real combat-oriented military drills and test new weapons to safeguard national security in response to the THAAD roll-out. The article said that while the exact date of the test and type of weapon are unknown, a photo which showed possible wreckage from the missile with the letters "E/ADF-26B" has gone viral online. It said many believe it is a modified DF-26 intermediate-range ballistic missile and pointed out that the publication National Interest had described it as "something the US Navy has to take very seriously."

Media reports describe the new type of DF-26B as having an electromagnetic pulse, which can jam enemies' radar. The Global Times article also said that "there has been no lack of discussions over countermeasures against THAAD among the Chinese public, including the use of economic leverage. But it is after all an issue of the military and security, which can only be effectively settled with military and security measures. Only by boosting China's strategic deterrence can the nation reach the goal of subduing the enemy without fighting.The latest weapons test shows that Beijing is proactively improving its capability of defense and counterattack. It also delivered a message to the world - never underestimate China's will and strength to safeguard its own security as well as regional peace and stability."