China's first Zhou-class nuclear submarine sinks during construction, US reports

China's first Zhou-class nuclear attack submarine sank while under construction at a shipyard, according to a U.S. defense official. Satellite images indicate the incident likely occurred between May and June, with cranes present for recovery efforts. The submarine's status remains unclear, including whether it was loaded with nuclear fuel. No radiation has been reported in the area since the sinking. This incident is a setback for China's rapid naval expansion amid ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The news follows China's recent intercontinental ballistic missile launch into international waters, marking its first such test since 1980. The U.S. views China's military growth as a significant security concern.