China Demonstrates Airborne Nuclear Strike Capability with H‑6N Bomber

Last month the People’s Liberation Army released footage of its H‑6N strategic bomber carrying the nuclear‑capable Jing Lei‑1 (JL‑1) air‑launched ballistic missile. The H‑6N, a modernised variant of China’s sole strategic bomber, flew the missile during a joint anti‑ship exercise that was later shown in a CCTV documentary marking the PLA’s 99th anniversary. The clip shows the bomber’s flight path, missile launch, and re‑entry trajectory, offering a rare visual confirmation of China’s airborne nuclear strike capability. By demonstrating that the H‑6N can deliver a nuclear payload from the air, the PLA signals that it can maintain a credible second‑strike posture and strengthen its deterrence against potential adversaries. The footage also underscores China’s continued investment in modernising its strategic bomber fleet.