The Chinese Mirage

[ErnstBlofeld]

The Strategy Page:

 

While China has two of its new 094 class SSBNs (ballistic missile carrying nuclear subs) in service, they are still undergoing tests, and not doing any patrols. These boats have been in development for a decade now. The first one was launched six years ago, and was thought to be ready for service three years ago. The 094 is similar to the 093 class SSN (nuclear attack sub), which looks a lot like the three decade old Russian Victor III class SSN design. Taking a SSN design and adding extra compartments to hold the ballistic missiles is an old trick, pioneered by the United States in the 1950s to produce the first SSBNs. The Chinese appear to have done the same thing with their new SSN, creating a larger SSBN boat of 9,000 tons displacement. These SSBNs are armed with twelve JL-2 ballistic missiles and six torpedo tubes. Priority was apparently given to construction of the 094, as having nuclear missiles able to reach the United States gives China more diplomatic clout than some new SSNs. But mastering all the technologies required for a successful SSBN has proved daunting. The Chinese are not in a rush to put a problem ridden boat in service, and are working out all the problems first.

 

 

Edited September 23, 2010 by Rheo
snipped