The sinking of China’s first Zhou-class submarine represents a setback for Beijing as it continues to build out the world’s largest navy.

China’s ambitious nuclear-powered submarine program suffered a major setback earlier this year when a new Zhou-class submarine sank near a shipyard in Wuhan. -The submarine, featuring an advanced X-shape stern for improved maneuverability,

A U.S. officials says China's newest nuclear-powered submarine in its fleet sank in spring while docked at a pier but Chinese government officials have taken steps to cover it up.

A Chinese nuclear-powered attack submarine sank in its dock earlier this year while under construction, in a major setback for the Chinese military, according to US defence officials. Speaking on condition of anonymity to the BBC's US partner,

China's newest nuclear-powered attack submarine sank earlier this year, a senior U.S. defense official said on Thursday, a potential embarrassment for Beijing as it seeks to expand its military capabilities.

Building a potent nuclear submarine force would help China tighten control over its peripheral waters and improve its ability to seize Taiwan.