The JL-2 (JuLang-2, NATO reporting name: CSS-NX-4) is the two-stage, solid-propellant submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) under development since the early 1990s to replace the first-generation JL-1 (CSS-N-3). The missile was scheduled to be carried by the Type 094 (Jin class) nuclear-powered missile submarine. Very little information is available regarding this highly classified weapon development programme. It is understood that the missile is a sea-based version of the DF-31 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
The JL-2 SLBM is said to have a maximum range of 8,000km and is callable of carrying 3~4 multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRV), each with a yield of 90kt; or a single warhead of 25-~1,000kt yield. The JL-2 SLBM is an important step for China towards a credible sea-based nuclear retaliation capability.
