From Lop Nur to the Pacific: The Evolution of Chinese Nuclear Deterrence and Asian Security

Having reportedly tested the JL-3 SLBM, China’s nuclear submarine fleet can deploy closer home, increasing the chances of patrols deep into the IOR, with greater frequency and complexity.

Chinese SLBM JL-3 on display at a military parade in September 2025.

Credit: Xinhua

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Siddhant Hira

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Siddhant Hira is a Senior Research Associate at NatStrat. He focuses on India-China relations; the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific; India’s Special Forces, Intelligence and Foreign Policy; India’s neighbourhood; and the cognitive and information domain.

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