China’s military showcased a powerful new capability in a 2026 promotional video released to mark the 99th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army. The footage highlighted an H-6N bomber, a long-range strategic aircraft, carrying what appears to be the JL-1 air-launched ballistic missile under its fuselage. Accompanied by two J-20 stealth fighter jets, the bomber was featured in a broader demonstration of joint operations involving the PLA Air Force, Navy, and Rocket Forces. The video depicted these forces conducting a synchronized strike in the western Pacific, sharing real-time targeting and awareness data. The display came as part of a series of anniversary-related materials promoting China’s military advancements.
The JL-1 missile was not a complete surprise. It had been previously captured, but only unofficially, mounted beneath the H-6 bomber during the 2025 Victory Day parade in Beijing. That version, dubbed the CH-AS-X-13, was initially suspected to be a modified version of the DF-21D anti-ship ballistic missile. However, with the official designation of JL-1 in this latest footage, analysts are now trying to determine whether it is an evolved version of the CH-AS-X-13 or a new system altogether. The presence of the JL-1 on the H-6N, a variant specifically linked to China’s nuclear triad, suggests it may have a nuclear role. But some experts believe the missile could also be carried in a conventional configuration by the H-6KG version of the bomber.
Missile role and bomber variants
The H-6N’s association with nuclear forces strengthens the theory that the JL-1 missile could be armed with a nuclear warhead. In contrast, the H-6KG variant, which is known for carrying non-nuclear standoff weapons like the YJ-21/KD-21, might carry a conventional version of the JL-1. The missile’s possible dual-role flexibility highlights a significant shift in China’s strategic posture. Analysts are divided: some argue the JL-1 is the final iteration of the CH-AS-X-13 program, while others insist it is a new missile altogether. Either way, its deployment on the H-6 platform points to growing versatility in China’s bomber fleet.
The video did not clarify which variant of the H-6 was used for nuclear or conventional roles. But the broader implication is clear: China is expanding the range and capabilities of its long-range strike options. The country has long adhered to a 'no-first-use' nuclear policy, meaning it would only deploy nuclear weapons in response to a strike. With a reported nuclear arsenal of under 600 warheads, China’s nuclear posture remains more restrained compared to the U.S. and Russia, which maintain arsenals of around 3,700 and 5,500 warheads, respectively. If the H-6N is indeed used to carry nuclear-armed JL-1 missiles, it would be deployed in retaliatory scenarios, making its protection during missions a high priority.
Unmanned operations and missile advancements
Alongside the bomber and missile displays, Chinese state media showcased the PLA Air Force’s growing reliance on unmanned systems. The GJ-3A, Wing Loong-10, and WZ-7 drones were all highlighted for their roles in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) as well as targeting. These platforms are said to support all three major branches of the PLA—Army, Navy, and Rocket Force. The GJ-3A is a long-endurance, high-altitude drone capable of both surveillance and strike missions. The WZ-10 and WZ-7, on the other hand, operate at similar levels to the U.S. MQ-4C Triton, equipped with optical and radar systems for maritime and land-based targeting.
In a 2026 documentary titled 'The Road to Victory,' drone operators from the Southern Theater Command discussed the importance of 'intelligent data processing' and 'wide-area search' capabilities. These systems help identify targets at key locations, including airports, ports, and transportation hubs. The drones are also critical for long-range tube rocket artillery support and maritime situational awareness. The emphasis on smart technologies and integrated operations underscores China’s push to modernize its military infrastructure. These developments came shortly after China officially unveiled the YJ-20, a hypersonic anti-ship cruise missile tested from a Type 055 destroyer in December 2025.
The YJ-20, tested on the destroyer Wuxi, marked another milestone in China’s pursuit of advanced missile systems. The test was described as a 'type approval' for the missile’s anti-ship version, indicating it had passed critical performance benchmarks. Alongside the H-6N and JL-1, the YJ-20 reflects China’s growing emphasis on standoff and long-range precision capabilities. The H-6N, in particular, may soon be seen launching the JL-1 in real-world scenarios. Given the bomber’s escort by J-20 fighters, it is likely that air superiority will be a key component of its operational profile.
While the full implications of these developments remain to be seen, one thing is clear: China is systematically enhancing its strategic capabilities across land, sea, and air domains. The H-6N and JL-1 combination, if deployed operationally, could significantly extend the reach of China’s bomber fleet. The integration of drones and advanced missile systems into joint operations suggests a military strategy that prioritizes coordination and multi-domain warfare. These efforts align with China’s broader vision of building a modern, technologically advanced defense force capable of deterring potential adversaries on multiple fronts.