China Displays New Nuclear Missile Based on DF-31 ICBM at National Day Parade

China on Tuesday displayed twelve of its new JL-2 nuclear-capable submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) based on DF-31 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) for the first time at the National Day parade in Beijing.

The missile is reportedly already being inducted into active service with the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). 

“The JL-2 is a submarine-launched version of the DF-31 long-range, three-stage, solid-fuel rocket ICBM. It is a very mature missile already deployed with the PLAN,” said Yang Chengjun, a Chinese expert on missile technology and nuclear strategy and chief scientist of quantum defense, according to Global Times.

According to Reuters, the new missiles are compatible with China’s Type 094 (Jin-class) ballistic missile submarines. Equipped with the missiles, the Type 094 submarines represent China's first credible, sea-based nuclear deterrent, the US Department of Defense said in a report released in August 2018.

The Asian country has reportedly begun development of third generation SLBM, the JL-3. An unidentified flying object was seen across several provinces in China in June, which led military analysts to believe it was a test launch of the JL-3, as it coincided with a scheduled military test in the Bohai Sea and Bohai Straits.

“The JL-3 is actually the submarine-launched version of the DF-41, the most advanced ICBM, which also made its debut at the parade. It is currently is undergoing research and development,” Yang revealed.