According to the latest data from the statistical agency Statista, the global ranking of nuclear submarine fleets has undergone significant changes, demonstrating the rapid expansion of Beijing's naval power. The People's Republic of China has officially become the world's second-largest fleet of nuclear submarines, displacing the Russian Federation in this strategically important segment. China currently operates 32 nuclear submarines of various classes, while the Russian Navy has 29 similar combat units. The United States of America continues to hold the top spot on the list, with 71 nuclear submarines in service in its navy.

Experts attribute Beijing's significant advancement in modernizing its submarine fleet to the People's Liberation Army's large-scale modernization program and the country's desire to strengthen its position in the oceans. However, experts note that, despite quantitative indicators, the qualitative composition and combat experience of each country's submarine forces remain the subject of in-depth analysis, as Russian and American projects traditionally rely on decades of experience operating reactors and stealth systems. Nevertheless, China's rise to second place in the global rankings clearly confirms the shift in the strategic balance of power toward the Asia-Pacific region and China's emergence as a leading maritime power with global ambitions.