Missile JL-1 (CH-SS-N-3)

The Julang-1 (巨浪-1, "Great Wave"), also designated JL-1 and CSS-N-3 under NATO nomenclature, was the first generation of Chinese submarine-launched ballistic missile.

Work on the JL-1 began on 26 March 1967 under the National Defense Science and Technology Commission. In parallel, design work started on a reduced-size thermonuclear warhead adapted to the missile's volume constraints; a theoretical design for that warhead was completed in 1970. The land-based DF-21 appears to be derived from the same design.

The JL-1 is a two-stage solid-propellant ballistic missile carrying a single thermonuclear warhead. The decision to develop a purpose-built miniaturised thermonuclear device, rather than adapt an existing warhead, was driven by the diameter and length limits imposed by submarine launch tubes.

The missile was operated exclusively by the People's Liberation Army Navy. Initial testing and early deployment were conducted from a modified Golf-class diesel-electric ballistic missile submarine, which served as the trials platform. The same boat was subsequently reconfigured for launch testing of follow-on missiles, including the JL-2.

Operational deployment took place in 1986 aboard the Type 092 Xia-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, which carries twelve launch tubes. A 2011 United States Department of Defense assessment described the operational status of the JL-1 as questionable. As of 2018, the missiles and their warheads are believed to have been retired and dismantled. No combat use has been recorded.