China reveals pictures of its first generation SSN and SSBN Submarine Force

: Posted On Tuesday, 29 October 2013 10:39

Naval Forces News - China

China reveals pictures of its first generation SSN and SSBN Submarine Force

China has made a historic decision to reveal details about its nuclear submarine force. Mainstream media outlets across the country have provided wide coverage about the force's first fleet, its safety record, as well as training and technological advancements. But what does this transparency mean? What signals is China trying to send? Xinhuanet reporter Han Bin interviews Chinese military experts to find out more.

Recently revealed Type 092 Xia class SSBN pictures

Coming up for air, China’s nuclear submarines used to be one of the world’s best-kept secrets.

Chinese journalists were recently invited to an open house where they got a thorough introduction to this strategic force for the first time. Both ballistic missile submarines and attack submarines have been shown on national TV.

“We’ve made great progress through technological improvements, as well in mass training over long-distances and combat capabilities.” Said Wang Zhonghui, captain of China Nuclear Submarine.

China’s nuclear submarine force is a key pillar of the country’s military strength, with the latest equipment being designed domestically.

Military expert Yin Zhuo reveals the significance of the force.

“China says it has a no first use nuclear weapons policy. Nuclear submarines can effectively deter and fight back against those who want to launch nuclear attacks on China. It can reduce the danger of nuclear war. ” Military expert Major General Yin Zhuo said.

It’s believed that the nuclear submarine force is a symbol of naval strength and a guardian of national security. China’s is the only such maritime strategic force in Asia.

“By showing the world China’s military development, the army hopes to deter those who have ulterior motives. Those who want to challenge China’s core interests; they will not only face its naval aviation forces, but also its underwater submarine forces.” Yin said.

Reporter: “Ever since it was founded, China’s elite unit of nuclear submarines has kept a low profile. So, many are surprised to see openness of the deterrent force today. Chinese military observers believe China’s nuclear submarine force has become strong, and confident enough to reveal its stealth.”

(Source: CNTV.cn)

Recently revealed Type 091 Han class SSN pictures

Type 092 Xia class SSBN
The 6,500-ton Type 092 Daqingyu (NATO designation Xia class, Chinese designation 09-II) submarine was the first ballistic missile-carrying, nuclear-powered submarine class (SSBN) deployed by the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy, and the first SSBN designed and built in Asia. The design is derived from the Han-Class SSNs, with an extended hull to accommodate twelve missile tubes. At least two additional units were expected, but construction of further units was canceled around 1985 in favor of developing an all-new, larger design with longer-range missiles. The first Ju Lang-1 submerged launch took place from the Golf-class trials submarine on 12-10-82 to a range of 1,600 km. The missile is believed to have two solid-propulsion stages and to have a range of 1,700 km. The first Xia missile launch took place 7-88, and no further launches have been announced.

Type 091 Han class SSN
The 4,500/5,500-ton Type 091 (NATO designation Han-class, Chinese designation 09-I) was the first nuclear-powered submarine (SSN) class deployed by the People's Liberation Army Navy. The first submarine in the class was commissioned in 1974 and the fifth and final boat of the class was commissioned in 1990. The Han-Class is the first generation of nuclear-powered submarines in the PLAN. All Han class SSNs are assigned to the North Sea Fleet and based near Qingdao.