China’s Newest Nuclear Submarine 'Sinks' in Blow to its Ambitious Military Plans

Beijing: China’s ambitious plans to modernize its naval and military power have encountered a significant blow after its newest state-of-the-art nuclear submarine sank at a dock in Wuhan last year, as per reports.

The incident reportedly took place last May or June at the Wuchang shipyard near Wuhan, the same city where the COVID-19 pandemic is believed to have originated.  

The incident was revealed through satellite imagery despite efforts by Chinese authorities to cover it up.

A US defense official told a global media agency that the submarine, a new Zhou-class vessel distinguished by its X-shaped stern for improved maneuverability was positioned near a pier when it sank.

Satellite images later confirmed that China’s latest nuclear-powered attack submarine sank while it was under construction.

The vessel likely sank between May and June, as imagery during that time showed cranes typically used to lift it from the riverbed, according to the anonymous US official who provided details about the Chinese loss to the agency.

China has been rapidly expanding its naval fleet, and its growing military presence is considered a major security concern by the US and India as well.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington responded on Thursday, stating it was 'not familiar with the situation' and had no further information to provide.