China has launched its first next-generation Type 095 nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN), according to satellite imagery analysed by defence experts.
It marks a significant leap as Beijing ramps up the underwater arms race to challenge US naval dominance in technology and production.
Images captured between February 9 and 12 showed the vessel being fitted out at the Bohai Shipyard in Huludao, Liaoning province, according to Janes and Naval News.
Defence analysts said the pictures revealed a new design with advanced acoustic stealth and strike capacity.
The most prominent visual feature of the new submarine – Nato code name Sui-class – is its X-tail rudder configuration. It is the first Chinese nuclear submarine to feature this design, which improves manoeuvrability, according to Janes Defence.
It also appears to be equipped with a pump-jet propulsor, which is critical for reducing noise signatures. This has already been used on the Type 093B – the latest variant of the Chinese navy’s existing Shang-class submarines.