What is DF-17? China’s maneuverable hypersonic ballistic missile.

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Yazı Özetini Göster

Technical Specifications

FeatureValue
TypeMedium-range ballistic missile + Hypersonic glide vehicle (MRBM + HGV)
ManufacturerCASIC (China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation)
Weight≈15,000 kg (estimate)
Length≈11 m (estimate)
Range≈1,800-2,500 km (estimate)
SpeedMach 5-10 (HGV phase)
WarheadDF-ZF (HGV) — Hypersonic glide, nuclear or conventional
GuidanceINS + BeiDou GPS + terminal maneuvering
LaunchTEL — Vertical launch mounted on a truck
StealthNone (visible classic ballistic launch)
ManoeuvrabilityChange of direction within the atmosphere
Official Announcement70th Anniversary of the People’s Republic of China — 2019-10-01
Service2019+ (operational)
UserChina (People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force)

Why is it considered revolutionary?

  • The classic ballistic missile trajectory is predictable
  • The DF-ZF warhead can maneuver within the atmosphere
  • Patriot, THAAD, Aegis — overcomes classic ballistic defenses
  • Speed of Mach 5-10 — very short response time
  • American aircraft carriers are a threat in open areas
  • Technology long-term targets for Turkey
  • Hypersonic arms race — American AGM-183, Russian Avangard, American ARRW

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