The test was conducted in July earlier this year, during which the missile was launched at 12:01 p.m. local time. Chinese officials described the exercise as a routine military drill and stated that the launch was not aimed at any specific country or target. Relevant governments were reportedly informed of the test in advance. While the specific model of the missile and submarine was not officially identified in the statement, the launch demonstrated the sea-based leg of China’s nuclear triad. Prior to this July test, China had only conducted two publicly known intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests in the Pacific region, both of which were land-based launches.
Defense analysts had previously speculated that the July launch involved a Type 094 ballistic missile submarine, a second-generation nuclear-powered vessel that has been in service for nearly a decade. These submarines are capable of carrying JL-2 missiles and potentially the newer JL-3, a weapon with sufficient range to strike parts of the United States from waters near China. Unlike conventional submarines, nuclear-powered vessels can remain underwater for months without refueling, enhancing their survivability and deterrence value. The announcement coincided with the 90th anniversary of the Long March, a historical victory for Communist forces during China’s civil war.
The disclosure follows sharp criticism from regional neighbors, including Japan and Australia, regarding China’s expanding undersea nuclear capabilities. In parallel with missile testing, China is accelerating the construction of new submarine classes. Commercial satellite imagery indicates that two new types of submarines were launched this year at the Jiangnan and Huludao shipyards. Additionally, China has begun introducing the more advanced Type 095 attack submarine, while development continues on the next-generation Type 096. Beijing has officially confirmed the Type 095, though its deployment status remains unverified by independent sources.
China is also expanding its support infrastructure for underwater operations. Satellite imagery from October 2 showed a new vessel emerging from a covered graving yard at Guangzhou Shipyard International. This ship, designed to handle uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs), features a flight deck and hangar similar to a counterpart identified earlier in Shanghai. Large UUVs can perform seabed mapping, mine detection, and surveillance, potentially supporting submarine operations. No specific payloads, including weapons, have been confirmed for these vessels. The next expected development in this sector will likely involve further official disclosures regarding the operational deployment of the Type 095 and Type 096 classes.
