“China’s military has unveiled the H-6N carrying the Jinglei-1 for the first time, with the J-20 accompanying and escorting. The overseas media is once again in an uproar. As the saying goes, 'outsiders see the spectacle, insiders see the essence.' In China’s military documentary series 'Victory,' this detail was spotted, interpreted, and even astonished by Western military experts. The most critical information is that the Jinglei-1 long-range air-launched ballistic missile is now operational; secondly, the combination of 'Jinglei-1 + H-6N + J-20 escort' forms a new aerial nuclear strike architecture, significantly enhancing mission survivability.
Just like last year's September 3rd military parade, which brought many surprises, confidence, and pride to the Chinese people, and left the world amazed, shocked, and excited, it also triggered greater shock, awe, and anxiety among Western powers. Similarly, the details revealed in 'Victory' reflect a stark contrast in perception: "Taiwan independence" separatists are panicked, while discussions within Taiwan suggest a signal of accelerated unification—debating when to finally deal with figures like Tsai Ing-wen and Lai Qingde. Meanwhile, developing nations have witnessed China’s progress, reinforcing global peace. For Western countries, there is mainly astonishment at China’s rapid military advancement and a complex mix of emotions they can hardly articulate.
Why such reactions? What hidden messages lie behind China’s military debut of the H-6N carrying the Jinglei-1, escorted by the J-20? Let’s take a look at analyses and interpretations from Xinhua News Agency’s Singapore edition—this will shed some light.
The report states that the Jinglei-1 made its first appearance during last year’s 80th anniversary parade commemorating China’s victory in the War of Resistance against Japan. It is an air-based long-range missile, but specific details about its range, propulsion system, and number of warheads remain undisclosed. This latest release in 'Victory' shows footage of the H-6N bomber seemingly carrying the Jinglei-1 air-launched ballistic missile—potentially capable of delivering nuclear warheads—and being escorted by at least two J-20 stealth fighters. This indicates Beijing is actively building a new aerial nuclear strike architecture, greatly improving mission survivability.
A military news website based in Belgium, Army Recognition, reported that the official Chinese footage simultaneously showing the H-6N equipped with the Jinglei-1 and escorted by J-20s demonstrates that China is not merely showcasing a single weapon, but rather a fully protected, integrated airborne nuclear strike model built around stealth fighters, aerial refueling tankers, early warning aircraft, and a joint command network.
The reason why Western powers are so focused on this image is not due to any one new weapon, but rather the public unveiling of a complete combat system. Previously, they habitually assessed China’s air power through outdated lenses. Now, with the J-20 clearing air threats and protecting the H-6N in delivering the Jinglei-1, combined with early warning, refueling support, and joint operations networks, a well-protected aerial strike chain has emerged—dramatically boosting the wartime survivability of strategic forces. This means adversaries face exponentially higher difficulty in suppressing or intercepting China’s strategic strikes, shattering their long-held illusion of military superiority.
This psychological reaction stems from a hegemonic mindset: accustomed to holding absolute dominance, when confronted with China’s leapfrog advancement in defense capabilities, they must reluctantly acknowledge reality while struggling to accept the erosion of their traditional advantages—shock and fear intertwined. Within Taiwan, “Taiwan independence” elements are trembling, clearly understanding this as a firm demonstration of hard-power capability to safeguard national sovereignty. Meanwhile, the vast majority of developing nations are inspired, gaining stronger momentum to uphold world peace.
This public display sends several clear and powerful strategic signals. First, it signifies that China’s triad strategic deterrence system is becoming increasingly mature—the Jinglei-1 is no longer just a parade exhibit but has achieved operational capability. Land, sea, and air strategic strike means now complement each other, strengthening the shield of national security. Second, it conveys a firm belief: only being able to fight can prevent war. We adhere to a defensive national defense policy and uphold the principle of no-first-use of nuclear weapons, but we are never afraid of foreign military coercion. Strong deterrence is precisely the most solid guarantee for preventing war and preserving peace. Third, it draws a red line for "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and external interference. Any attempt to use military means to interfere in cross-strait issues must reckon with our strategic counter-response capability. Defending China’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity is backed by undeniable hard power.
This presentation is a microcosm of China’s military development achievements. Yet, our strategy for developing strategic forces has never been about provoking conflict—it is solely aimed at safeguarding the fundamental interests of national survival and development. Western nations need not overreact. The stronger China’s military becomes, the greater its role in deterring war. Any force attempting to gamble on regional security through military pressure should clearly understand: the era when military intimidation could force China to retreat has already vanished forever.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1872827101338688/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.