Missile Dongfeng DF-2 (CH-SS-1)

The DF-2, designated CSS-1 in Western nomenclature, was the first medium-range ballistic missile developed by the People's Republic of China. Following the 1950 Sino-Soviet Treaty of Friendship, Alliance and Mutual Assistance, the Soviet Union provided technical documentation and equipment for missile production, including R-1, R-2, and R-11F technology. After the Sino-Soviet split, indigenous development utilized existing production facilities to create the DF-2.

The system is a single-stage, liquid-fueled missile. Technical analysis indicates the design integrated an airframe derived from the R-5 Pobeda with a locally developed propulsion system utilizing liquid oxygen and alcohol. The missile features four fins at the base and employs an inertial guidance system. For nuclear operations, the DF-2 carries a warhead with a blast yield of 15–20 kt.

The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force operated the DF-2. An initial launch test in 1962 resulted in failure, leading to the development of the improved DF-2A variant. On 27 October 1966, the DF-2A successfully conducted a live nuclear warhead test, with the detonation occurring in the atmosphere above Lop Nor. The missile was deployed in Northern China. A primary operational limitation was the use of liquid oxygen, which prevented the system from being stored in a fueled state for extended periods. The DF-2 was withdrawn from active service during the 1980s.