Geostrategic Daily — For China, H-6N bomber enhances nuclear deterrence and...

For China, H-6N bomber enhances nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability

The H-6N bomber carries the JL-1 air-launched ballistic missile, which completes China's nuclear triad alongside intercontinental ballistic missiles and submarine-launched ballistic missiles. In July 2024, two H-6s conducted a joint patrol near Alaska with Russian Tu-95 bombers, prompting the US-Canadian North American Aerospace Defence Command to scramble fighter jets. The H-6 has been Beijing's primary strategic strike aircraft for six decades.

Why it matters: The completion of the nuclear triad through the airborne leg affects nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability.

geostrategy military basing · great power rivalry

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With the JL-1 ALBM able to be mounted on the H-6N bomber, China is now considered to have completed its nuclear triad, boosting its nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability.

In July 2024, two H-6s were spotted conducting joint patrol near Alaska for the first time with their Russian counterpart, the Tu-95, prompting the US-Canadian North American Aerospace Defence Command to scramble their fighter jets.

For the past six decades, the H-6 has served as Beijing’s primary strategic strike aircraft.

For China, H-6N bomber enhances nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability

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