The debut of the Jinglei-1 (JL-1) long-range missile means China has a complete air, sea and land nuclear deterrent, one that will improve with the next generation of strategic bombers, according to analysts.
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The JL-1 is a nuclear-capable air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM) and debuted during Beijing’s military parade last week.
It appeared alongside land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) – the first time that China has publicly displayed a full nuclear triad.
With a range of up to 8,000km (5,000 miles), the JL-1 can move at hypersonic speed and with terminal manoeuvrability, giving it strong penetration abilities and making it difficult to intercept, according to Chinese state media reports.
The JL-1 can be carried on a modified H-6N strategic bomber, which can be refuelled in the air, extending the aircraft’s operational range, according to experts.
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