# China tests advanced nuclear submarine missile

> China uses new nuclear sub to launch intercontinental ballistic missile.
- Title: China tests advanced nuclear submarine missile | Shortify
- Summary: China uses new nuclear sub to launch intercontinental ballistic missile. China deployed its third-generation nuclear submarines to test-fire an…
- Keywords: china, nuclear submarines, intercontinental ballistic missiles, pacific, xinhua news agency, people's liberation army, news, politics, world, tests, advanced, nuclear
- Source: The Japan Times — https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/10/19/asia-pacific/china-nuclear-sub-test-fire
- Author: Josh Xiao
- Published: 2026-10-19T09:59:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: china, nuclear submarines, intercontinental ballistic missiles, pacific, xinhua news agency, people's liberation army, news, politics, world
## China reveals nuclear sub test
China said it used its most advanced nuclear submarines to test-fire an intercontinental ballistic missile in the Pacific earlier this year.

> The Changzheng series of nuclear submarines have now reached the third generation and successfully organized the test launch of a submarine-launched strategic missile
## First time third-gen subs deployed
This is the first time Beijing has revealed that its latest submarines were deployed for the test, and the first time the third-generation subs have been used by the People’s Liberation Army.
## Missile test draws criticism
The statement drew criticism from regional countries including Japan and Australia.
## Previous missile tests
China had only conducted two publicly known ICBM tests in the Pacific before July, and both were land-based launches.
## Analysts speculate on submarine type
Analysts had previously speculated that the launch was from a Type 094 submarine, which is a second-generation nuclear-powered boat in service for almost a decade.
## Unverified photos of new subs
Unverified photos have circulated showing what analysts call Type 095 attack subs and 096 ballistic missile subs.
## Submarine construction accelerating
China appears to be speeding up submarine construction, with commercial satellite imagery indicating the launch of two new types this year in the Jiangnan and Huludao shipyards.
## Key takeaway

China deployed its third-generation nuclear submarines to test-fire an intercontinental ballistic missile in the Pacific, marking a step-up in naval capabilities.