A naval warfare researcher who wished to be identified only as Cui said that the JL-3 can be launched from anywhere its carriers — China's nuclear-powered submarines — can travel, and it has a much longer hit range than its predecessors.

It is difficult to detect and track, and can be used on short notice, he said, noting that it is tasked with realizing the country's sea-based nuclear deterrence and counterstrike goals.

"The core essence of a sea-based nuclear weapon is that it can substantially increase the 'stability and persuasiveness' of our strategic deterrence power," Cui said.

Besides the strategic missiles, the CJ-1000 vehicle-mounted supersonic cruise missile, the YJ-18C ship-launched cruise missile and the YJ-21 air-launched ballistic missile were unveiled during the parade, testifying to the PLA's improved capability to stage long-range precision assaults from various dimensions.