The JL-2 is a Chinese-made intercontinental-range submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) system. China developed this missile concurrently with the DF-31 land-based intercontinental ballistic missile starting in the 1970s. As of 2016, China operates four Jin-class nuclear ballistic missile submarines, each equipped with 12 JL-2 missiles. China’s long-term plans include producing a total of 12 Jin-class submarines. These systems have replaced the JL-1 missiles on the retired Xia-class Type 092 submarines.
Technical Specifications of the JL-2
- Country of Origin: China
- Missile Class: Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM)
- Operator: People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China
- Platform: Jin-Class Nuclear Ballistic Missile Submarine
- Length: 13 meters
- Diameter: 2 meters
- Launch Weight: 42 tons
- Range: 8,000 – 9,000 km
- Payload Capacity: 1,050 – 2,800 kg
- Warhead: Single nuclear warhead (1 megaton) or 3-8 MIRV (Multiple Independently targetable Reentry Vehicle) warheads ranging from 20, 90, or 150 kilotons
- Propulsion System: Three-stage solid-fuel rocket motor
- Accuracy: Circular error probable (CEP) of approximately 150 to 300 meters
Features and Technology of the Missile
The JL-2 has a minimum range of 2,000 km and can reach beyond 8,000 km. Its warheads can be a single large nuclear warhead or multiple smaller warheads with independent targeting capability. The missile is believed to carry penetration aids and decoys to evade missile defense systems. It employs an inertial guidance system supported by satellite updates, including GPS and China’s Bei Dou navigation satellite system, enhancing its targeting accuracy.
Service History
The JL-2 was initially installed on the Golf-class Type 031 submarine for testing, with its first test launch conducted in 2002. Subsequent tests occurred in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2012, and 2015. It is estimated that the missile entered active service in 2015. As of 2019, the People’s Liberation Army Navy operates four submarines equipped with a total of 48 JL-2 launch tubes, with an additional two submarines under construction.
