China has revealed its JL-3 SLBM to the public during a Victory Day parade in Beijing, confirming the system’s operational maturity after years of secrecy. The missile represents nearly two decades of focused development to give the PLAN a true sea-based second-strike force. Offering a 9,000–12,000 km reach, the JL-3 allows launches from secure Chinese waters while still holding the U.S. mainland at risk. Improvements over the JL-2 include advanced solid-fuel propulsion, MIRV capability, and hardened guidance systems for accuracy. Deployed on Type 094A and the next-generation Type 096 SSBNs, the JL-3 allows long-duration deterrent patrols. Analysts view its unveiling as a statement that China is now firmly part of the top tier of global nuclear powers with sea-based intercontinental capabilities, joining the U.S. and Russia in operating missiles able to bypass defenses and hit multiple targets simultaneously.
