The Xia-class submarine was the first ballistic missile-carrying, nuclear-powered submarine class (SSBN) deployed by the People's Liberation Army Navy, and is also known as the Type 92. The first (#406) of its class was launched in 1986. As of 2004, only one of the class is thought to have been commissioned, although rumors of more members have circulated in the past. These came from the fact that since an SSBN can only be kept deployed for limited time periods, multiple SSBNs are needed to keep a constant nuclear deterrent. Originally deployed armed with JL-1 SLBMs, it is now carries JL-2 SLBMs. The ship also has 6 533mm bow torpedo tubes.
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Last updated: 10-12-2005 19:20:34
