The Chinese Defence Ministry announced that the People’s Liberation Army conducted its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test in 44 years on Wednesday morning. The ICBM, known as the DF-41 and first deployed in 2017, was launched into the Pacific Ocean. The DF-41 has an operational range of 12,000–15,000km (7,460-9,320 miles), making it capable of reaching the US mainland. ICBMs typically have a range greater than 5,500km (3,420 miles) and are designed to carry nuclear warheads.
The official statement stated that the PLA’s Rocket Force successfully launched an ICBM carrying a simulated warhead, which accurately landed in the predetermined sea area on the high seas. The Ministry mentioned that this missile launch is part of the Rocket Force’s annual military training and is a routine arrangement. It effectively tests the performance of weapons and equipment and the level of troop training. The launch achieved its expected purpose, and China notified relevant countries in advance.
It is the first time in 44 years that China is known to have successfully conducted an atmospheric test of an ICBM over the high seas. In May 1980, a DF-5 – China’s first ICBM – flew more than 9,000 km (5,590 miles). China’s ICBM test comes as missile activities have been increasing in the Asia-Pacific region. Earlier this month, North Korea conducted several short-range ballistic missile tests, flying towards the Sea of Japan or East Sea.
In April, the US Army deployed its mid-range capability (MRC) missile system during a joint exercise with the Philippines. It marked the first deployment of such a weapon in the Asia-Pacific region since the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty between the US and the then-Soviet Union. The INF treaty banned land-based missiles ranging from 500km to 5,500km (311-3,420 miles). The US resumed the development of intermediate-range missiles after withdrawing from the INF treaty in 2019, citing alleged violations by Moscow and in response to China’s expanding rocket force.
Last October, a Pentagon report on China’s military and security development stated that the PLA Rocket Force is actively modernizing to improve its strategic deterrence capabilities. It includes the development of new intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). The report also mentioned that China has been increasing the number of launchers at most ICBM units, with an estimated 350 Chinese ICBMs, including DF-31 and DF-41, in 2022. Additionally, it noted that three new solid-propellant silo fields are under construction.
Team BharatShakti
