The latest information available on ships based at the nuclear submarine operating facility at Qingdao in northern China suggests that three SSBNs are now using this port. These appear to be the single Project 092 Xia class SSBN and two of the new Project 094 Jin class boats. However, it is believed that the Project 092 SSBN is primarily used for trials and training purposes and may not be operational. Nevertheless, the two Project 094s at Qingdao do represent a significant increase in China's secure deterrent capability - assuming they have a full complement of missiles. Also at Qingdao are five SSNs, only two of which are the old Project 091 Han class boats (the third remaining Project 091 is stationed at Yulin). The other three, including one in drydock, are the new Project 093 Shang class.
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