China’s New Nuclear Submarine Sinks Near Wuhan Shipyard, Sparking Concerns Over Its Naval Capabilities [Video]

China lost its most advanced nuclear-powered submarine earlier this year in a naval yard accident, raising concerns that the country may be overextending itself as it strives to build a navy capable of matching the strength of America’s. However, it has so far failed to do so.

The submarine, belonging to the new Zhou-class — China’s first line of nuclear-powered attack subs — sank at a shipyard near Wuhan in late May or early June, according to the Wall Street Journal. The Chinese military has remained silent about the event while continuing to promote its “maritime superiority” in the South China Sea, with particular focus on the potential for a Taiwan invasion.

Sank Without a Trace

Nuclear-powered submarines can operate for longer periods and at greater speeds than conventional submarines, which are already in China’s fleet. Zhou-class attack subs are designed to covertly hunt and engage enemy vessels, such as U.S. aircraft carrier groups, …