China Flexes Nuclear Weapons Ahead of US. Secretary of State Blinken's Visit

By John Lopez

Apr 23, 2024 02:24 PM EDT

China recently showed off its nuclear muscle, particularly its sea-based deterrent, just days before US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's scheduled visit to Beijing and Shanghai. The display also featured rare footage of a nuclear submarine launching a ballistic missile.

China Shows Off Nuclear Weapons Ahead of Blinken Visit

The Chinese navy released footage of the launch of a JL-2 ballistic missile, showcasing China's second-strike capability, the South China Morning Post reports.

The JL-2, deployed on Type 094A nuclear submarines since 2015, provides a formidable sea-based atomic deterrent with a 7,400-kilometer range, strengthening China's strategic defense posture.

According to a Pentagon report, China's JL-2 missile system, when deployed in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, can reach targets in the western United States, Hawaii, and Alaska. If it is deployed farther east, it may be able to target locations along the US east coast.

This demonstration coincides with Blinken's visit, which aims to implement agreements between Chinese and US leaders.

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CHINA-DEFENCE-NAVY
This picture taken during a media tour organised by the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) to mark its 75th founding anniversary, shows two submarines at the PLA Naval Museum in Qingdao, China's Shandong province on April 23, 2024.
(Photo : Photo by WANG ZHAO/AFP via Getty Images)

Upcoming US-China Talks

The timing of the demonstration could indicate China's strategic messaging, suggesting that it is prepared to defend its interests amid diplomatic engagements.

Furthermore, the release of the footage before Blinken's visit suggests a desire to demonstrate strength and preparedness in the face of potential discussions on contentious issues such as the war in Ukraine and the South China Sea.

China's state news agency, Xinhua tells us that China seeks constructive dialogue with the

Upcoming US-China Talks

The timing of the demonstration could indicate China's strategic messaging, suggesting that it is prepared to defend its interests amid diplomatic engagements.

Furthermore, the release of the footage before Blinken's visit suggests a desire to demonstrate strength and preparedness in the face of potential discussions on contentious issues such as the war in Ukraine and the South China Sea.

China's state news agency, Xinhua, tells us that China seeks constructive dialogue with the US while reaffirming its stance on issues such as Taiwan, democracy, and human rights.

Amid concerns over US interference and economic containment efforts, China urges the US to respect its sovereignty and refrain from actions that escalate tensions.

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 US while reaffirming its stance on issues such as Taiwan, democracy, and human rights.

Amid concerns over US interference and economic containment efforts, China urges the US to respect its sovereignty and refrain from actions that escalate tensions.READ NEXT: Duterte-China West PH Sea Sale Agreement Speculations Spread Due to Increasing Chinese Students in Cagayan

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