According to the report, the five nuclear-powered submarines would be able to launch ballistic missiles. Specifically, 'Jin' class submarines (photos) would be able to launch the 'JL-2' missile, considered the first credible deterrent weapon embarked on the Beijing regime's disposal.
The 'JL-2', whose design is based on the 'DF-31' missile, has an estimated range of 7.400 kilometers and can carry single or multiple warheads (conventional or nuclear). This means that if the missiles were launched from the Western Pacific, they could hit California.
But China isn't the only country in the region investing in attack submarines. India has 15 submarines, while Vietnam continues to purchase from Russia with three 'Kilo' class vessels already operating and three more in production. Indonesia would have twelve submarines, while Australia has invested twenty billion dollars to build a new fleet of twelve boats and retire what remains of the "Collins": this will not happen until 2025. Singapore has a submarine force of six boats with two more in production. Taiwan has four submarines, but only two are in service. Contacts have already been sent with Washington for the construction of a new class of boats. Finally, due to budget cuts, the United States Navy will have 2029 boats available by 42 compared to the current 52.
Franco Iacch
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