Special Report: Chinese SLBM test underscores sea-based nuclear deterrent capability

China likely launched the SLBM it fired into the Pacific in July 2026 from one of its Type 094 nuclear submarines. (Mark Schiefelbein / Pool / AFP via Getty Images)

Images released by Chinese state media following the People's Liberation Army Navy's (PLAN's) 6 July submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test indicate that the weapon was either a JL-2 or JL-3.

The imagery also suggests the missile may have been launched from the South China Sea, given weather conditions that appear consistent with those observed in the images.

The event marks the first publicly acknowledged launch of a strategic missile by a Chinese ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) into the Pacific Ocean and offers a rare glimpse of a capability central to Beijing's sea-based nuclear deterrent.

The launch occurred at 1201 h Beijing time on 6 July, when a PLAN SSBN fired a missile carrying a simulated warhead towards a designated impact area in the Pacific Ocean.

In a statement issued via state media just after the launch, Beijing said the missile landed accurately in the intended zone and described the launch as a routine training exercise.

Beijing also said relevant countries had been notified in advance and that the launch complied with international law and practice.

No details have been released about the missile type, launch location, submarine class, or precise splashdown point.

Visual clues

Early assessments of the launch focused on a statement issued by the Japanese government and a navigation warning issued by Chinese provincial authorities.

The Japanese statement said the Japan Coast Guard had received advance notification from China on 5 July that a hazard area would be declared south of Cape Shionomisaki.