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China Reveals Technical Details of DF-5 Nuclear Missile for the First Time, with a 4 Megaton Warhead and Intercontinental Range
China surprised the world by revealing, for the first time, details of one of its intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) systems.
The state broadcaster CCTV shared specific information about the DF-5, a weapon developed in the 1970s.
The revelation marks a shift in Beijing’s typically reserved stance on its nuclear capabilities.
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Impressive Features of the DF-5
The DF-5 is a two-stage missile, based in fixed silos. According to CCTV’s report, it carries a single nuclear warhead with a yield between 3 and 4 megatons of TNT. This destructive power is equivalent to about 200 times the force of the bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945.
With a range of 12,000 kilometers, the DF-5 can reach targets in the continental United States and Western Europe.
Its circular error probable (CEP) is 500 meters, which represents an adequate level of precision for strategic deterrent missions.
The missile measures 32.6 meters in height and 3.35 meters in diameter. At the time of launch, it weighs 183 tons. Although external analysts had already estimated these figures, the official confirmation from the Chinese state media is unprecedented.
For many experts, this disclosure is a message aimed at both the domestic audience and international observers.
Historical Importance of the DF-5
Former People’s Liberation Army (PLA) instructor Song Zhongping emphasized the DF-5’s critical role in an interview with the South China Morning Post.
He stated that the missile was essential in establishing China’s intercontinental nuclear capability. “Without the DF-5, China would not be regarded as a nation with a reliable intercontinental strike capability,” he claimed.
Song added that this disclosure may indicate preparation to introduce next-generation ICBMs.
“We are witnessing the gradual phasing out of older systems that have fulfilled their purpose. The message is clear: China possesses capabilities that are far more powerful than it has demonstrated to the world,” he explained.
Modernizations and New Armaments
In recent years, the DF-5 has undergone modernizations. The DF-5B variant can now carry multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs).
As a result, the Chinese missile approaches the capabilities of American systems, such as the Minuteman III, which became operational in 1970 but carries only a single warhead.
In addition to the DF-5, China is investing in other mobile ICBM platforms, such as the DF-31 and DF-41. The latter also has the capacity to carry multiple MIRVs and exceeds a range of 12,000 kilometers.
In 2023, China conducted its first publicly recognized ICBM test in decades. The test involved the launch of a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean. Experts believe the tested missile was a variant of the DF-31.
Nuclear Arsenal Expansion
According to the United States Department of Defense, China already has over 600 operational warheads. The expectation is that this number will exceed 1,000 by 2030.
The Pentagon also estimates that there are at least 320 ICBM silos in China, many of which are newly constructed or modernized.
Despite the rapid expansion of its strategic arsenal, Beijing maintains its declared policy of not using nuclear weapons first. It also promises not to use them against countries that do not possess nuclear arms.
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