China Conducts First Confirmed Submarine-Based Missile Test Since 1982
Quick Look
- China conducted its first confirmed submarine-based missile test since 1982, and first from a nuclear-powered submarine, on July 6.
- The launch involved a dummy warhead traveling 8,000km.
- A report suggested the JL-3 missile, seen publicly last September, is expected to boost China's nuclear strike capability.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The July 6 launch was China’s first confirmed submarine-based missile test since 1982, and the first known firing from a nuclear-powered submarine.
The July 6 launch – in which a dummy warhead travelled 8,000km (5,000 miles) – was China’s first confirmed submarine-based missile test since 1982, and the first known firing from a nuclear-powered submarine.
The type of missile used has not been officially confirmed, but a report in the Global Times – a newspaper owned by the party mouthpiece People’s Daily – suggested it was a JL-3, which can be fired from nuclear-powered submarines.
The intercontinental-range ballistic missile is expected to become a key pillar of China’s nuclear arsenal by boosting its ability to strike back in the event of an attack.
The missile programme
The JL-3 made its first public appearance at a giant military parade in Beijing last September.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
JL-3 missile will become a key pillar of China's nuclear arsenal.
Very likely · Medium term
Open Questions
- Official confirmation of missile type?
- Specific technical capabilities of JL-3?
