A significant escalation in China’s nuclear capabilities has been revealed, prompting concerns over Beijing’s intentions for “nuclear blackmail.” The recent military parade showcased a sophisticated nuclear triad, highlighting China’s ambition to project formidable nuclear power across air, land, and sea.
The display included the JL-1 air-launched ballistic missile, the JL-3 submarine-launched intercontinental missile, and the DF-61 surface-to-surface intercontinental missile. This represents a substantial leap in China’s nuclear modernization, particularly the newly acquired ability to launch nuclear strikes from the air. This development amplifies the threat landscape for the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Analysts believe these advancements are not just defensive but are strategically positioned to enable conventional warfare while mitigating the risk of international retaliation. Taiwan remains a central focus, with China asserting its claim over the democratic island. The potential exists for Beijing to use its tactical nuclear arsenal as a deterrent against U.S. or allied intervention.
This approach to nuclear intimidation is drawing comparisons to Russia’s strategy in Ukraine, where nuclear rhetoric was used to discourage direct military support from NATO. Experts caution that China might replicate this tactic, threatening tactical nuclear deployments to discourage intervention in its regional conflicts.
The broader implication is a challenge to the established international order. A successful conventional takeover of Taiwan, shielded by nuclear threats, could embolden authoritarian regimes globally. Countries like India must remain acutely aware of China’s growing nuclear muscle, which could be used to exert pressure without provoking decisive countermeasures.