China conducted a successful flight test of a nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launched from a nuclear-powered strategic submarine on Monday, marking the longest-range trial of any Chinese naval missile to date. The launch, described as the first publicly disclosed submarine-based missile test in nearly four decades, was carried out by a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) submarine from an undisclosed maritime location at 12:01 p.m.

The missile, equipped with a dummy warhead, hit a designated target area in the Pacific Ocean, according to Senior Captain Wang Xuemeng, a PLA Navy spokesperson. Wang characterized the test as a routine component of China’s annual military training, stating that prior notifications had been provided to relevant countries. He emphasized that the test complied with international law and established norms, and was not directed at any specific nation or target.

Further details regarding the specific type of missile and submarine involved, as well as precise launch and impact coordinates and missile range, have not been released by the PLA Navy. The last publicly acknowledged flight test of a Chinese submarine-launched ballistic missile was in September 1988, when a Type 0911 nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine fired two JL-1 missiles from the Bohai Sea. The JL-1 had limited operational range and primarily symbolized China’s nuclear capability rather than serving as a dependable deterrent before retirement.

Currently, China operates two known classes of submarine-launched ballistic missiles: the JL-2, first revealed in an October 2019 military parade, and the JL-3, unveiled in September during a national parade. Both missiles are reported to have intercontinental reach, multiple warhead capability, and advanced penetration features, enhancing China’s potential to conduct credible nuclear counterstrikes. The PLAN is also believed to possess an undisclosed number of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines in the Type 091V series.

Experts note that nuclear missiles launched from submarines are challenging to detect and can be deployed rapidly, making them a critical element of sea-based nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability. Song Zhongping, a retired officer of the PLA Rocket Force and military commentator, said the successful test underscores the strength of China’s nuclear triad, particularly the submarine-based leg, and reinforces the country’s ability to respond to nuclear threats reliably. He also referenced a land-based ICBM test conducted two years ago, suggesting that these developments collectively confirm the maturity and reliability of China’s nuclear deterrent platforms.

At a Beijing news briefing, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning responded to questions about the test, stressing that it was conducted safely and professionally. She urged other countries not to overinterpret the launch, reiterating that it was part of routine military training activities.