By CCTV reporter Tang Bo

BEIJING, Nov. 1 (Xinhuanet) -- For the very first time, China has released footage of its nuclear submarine fleet taking part in a drill. It was hailed as a symbol of Chinese military development. China says the drill has nothing to do with the current political situation in Northeast and Southeast Asia. It was referring to some concerns in the region.

A military drill to showcase China’s first nuclear submarine fleet.

The exercise tested various maneuvers, including deep-sea navigation, as well as submarine communication and coordination with other vessels.

It was a testament to China’s efforts in military development.

"With scientific and technological progress, we have made continuous efforts in research and development of weaponry. In accordance with national security requirements, there is no exception when it comes to nuclear submarines." Chinese defense ministry spokesperson Yang Yujun said.

This was the first time China released footage of its nuclear submarine force after four decades of development.

China launched the program in the 1960s. The maiden voyage of its first nuclear submarine took place in 1970.

The drill showcasing the submarine fleet comes amid tense relations with Japan and some south eastern Asian countries over territorial disputes in the East and South China Sea.

But China says the drill has nothing to do with the current political situation in Northeast and Southeast Asia.

"The PLA Navy submarine force is responsible for safeguarding national security as well as maintaining peace. China is revealing its nuclear submarine force unit for domestic audiences and the international community to gain a better knowledge of this force. It is not related to the current regional situation." Yang said.

(Source: CNTV.cn)