China has tested a new submarine-launched missile capable of obliterating San Francisco, an insider has revealed, in a massive boost to the country's 'deterrent'.
The Chinese navy tested its state-of-the-art JL-3 missile in Bohai Bay in the Yellow Sea last month, sources said.
The nuclear-capable missile has a 5,600 mile range, significantly longer than its predecessor the JL-2, which could strike targets 4,350 miles away.
It means that Beijing can now carry out nuclear strikes on America's west coast from the security of its own territorial waters.
Though the US Trident II, which is also deployed by the British, outstrips the new Chinese missile by some 2,000 miles, it shows Beijing's commitment to its nuclear defences.
The missile is designed for launch from China's nuclear-powered Jin Class submarines, which can be armed with up to 24 JL-2s.
Experts estimate their fleet is currently at four vessels, putting it on par with Britain's Vanguard Class armed with Trident II missiles.
A recent Pentagon report to US Congress revealed that China planned on building up that fleet and their next generation of Jin Class submarines would be able to carry up to 24 JL-3s.
Beijing-based military analyst Li Jie told the paper once the full flight range of the JL-3 had been developed, China would be furnished with colossal diplomatic power.
If they were able to increase its range to match Trident II then China would be able to strike the entirety of the United States from its coastal waters.
But despite claims Beijing only wants to develop a nuclear deterrent, last month it unveiled a new land-based missile with colossal intercontinental range.
The DF-41 ballistic missile 'can level the whole New York City with a single strike', the country's media warned.
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