Missile Dongfeng DF-41 / CH-SS-20

The DF-41 represents the fourth and latest generation within the Dongfeng series of strategic missiles. Its development project commenced in 1986, culminating in its official public debut during the China National Day military parade on October 1, 2019. Prior to its unveiling, reports from as early as 2013 indicated its ongoing development phase, with several flight tests noted between 2015 and 2017, marking milestones in its progression towards operational status.

This solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) possesses a significant operational reach, estimated between 12,000 and 15,000 kilometers, and can achieve hypersonic speeds up to Mach 25. It is engineered for Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) delivery. Stated warhead configurations include the capacity to carry up to ten individual warheads, each with a yield of 150 kilotons, or alternatively, eight warheads of 250 kilotons each. Some analyses suggest a payload capacity more likely configured for three warheads accompanied by numerous penetration aids, a feature reportedly developed in response to the deployment of missile defense systems. The guidance system is inertial, likely augmented by stellar updates and the BeiDou satellite navigation system, providing an estimated accuracy of around 100 meters Circular Error Probable (CEP).

The DF-41 reportedly entered service in 2017 and is operated by the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force. The system offers versatile basing options, including road-mobile Transporter Erector Launchers (TELs), rail-mobile platforms, and conventional silo-basing. As early as January 2017, there were reports of strategic ballistic missile brigades equipped with the system being deployed to provinces such as Heilongjiang and Xinjiang. Subsequent information, notably from 2021, indicated a significant expansion of its deployment infrastructure with the construction of numerous missile silos. Large silo fields were identified near Yumen, Hami, and Ordos, collectively projected to house a substantial arsenal of these long-range nuclear missiles. Tests for a rail-mobile variant of the DF-41 were also conducted, underscoring the diversity of its deployment strategies.