In a significant setback to China's military modernization efforts, US defense officials have confirmed that the country's newest nuclear-powered submarine sank earlier this year during construction at a Wuhan shipyard. This incident, described as a humiliating blunder, reportedly occurred in May or June, but details were allegedly covered up by the Chinese government. Satellite images have since validated the reports of the sinking, raising concerns about oversight and accountability within the People's Liberation Army. As China aims to bolster its naval capabilities, this incident may have serious implications for its future defense strategy.