China publicly showcases airborne nuclear strike capability for first time

China has, for the first time, publicly demonstrated its capability to conduct an airborne nuclear strike, releasing a video through state media that shows a coordinated attack against a hostile fleet in a simulated combat scenario.

According to China Daily, the video, published on the Weibo platform, features a Xian H-6N strategic bomber escorted by two J-20 stealth fighters. The bomber is seen carrying a JL-1 air-launched ballistic missile, which is designed to deliver a nuclear warhead.

The newspaper reported that this marks the first public disclosure by the People’s Liberation Army of such a capability. No details were provided regarding the timing of the footage or the military exercises during which it was filmed.

Beijing first unveiled the JL-1 missile during a military parade in September 2025, alongside other nuclear deterrent systems, including the DF-31BJ, DF-61, and DF-5C intercontinental ballistic missiles.

This display comes as part of China’s efforts to modernize its nuclear forces and strengthen its deterrence capabilities amid rising military competition in the Indo-Pacific region. Beijing maintains that its nuclear policy is based on defensive deterrence and maintaining a minimum nuclear arsenal.