On September 25, China successfully test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean. This marked the first such public test in over four decades. Analysts believe that the missile tested was a variant of the Dong Feng-31 (DF-31), a mobile ICBM with a significant strike range.
According to the Chinese Defense Ministry, the missile, carrying a dummy warhead, was launched from Hainan Island at 8:44 a.m. Beijing time. The missile traveled approximately 12,000 kilometers (7,460 miles), passing near the Philippines and Guam before landing in the Pacific Ocean near the French Polynesian Marquesas Islands. This test follows the last major Chinese ICBM launch in 1980 when a DF-5 missile traveled over 8,000 kilometers into the South Pacific.
Surprised that they actually showed the actual launch.
Looks somewhat consistent with a 31A/AG profile but considering the unknown launch apparatus, obscured site, and overall rare images of actual PLARF ICBMs themselves, who knows.https://t.co/bAGfkP2wpw pic.twitter.com/VVQqYcrMV6
— Rick Joe (@RickJoe_PLA) September 25, 2024
Although Beijing did not specify the missile type used in the test, military experts, based on released photos, believe it was likely the DF-31AG variant. This missile is part of the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) arsenal and offers enhanced mobility and range compared to earlier models.
The DF-31 series, known as “East Wind-31,” is one of the three primary ICBM models in China’s arsenal, alongside the older DF-5 and the more advanced DF-41. The DF-31AG variant is particularly notable for its mobile launch capability, allowing it to be launched from rugged, unpaved terrain.
The DF-31AG has a range of up to 13,200 kilometers (8,200 miles), placing much of the continental United States within its reach. It can carry multiple warheads, with experts suggesting it can be equipped with three or four smaller warheads capable of striking separate targets.
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