Missile Dongfeng DF-5 (CH-SS-4)

The Dongfeng 5 (DF-5) is a second-generation two-stage intercontinental ballistic missile. The system underwent its first flight test in 1971, with final testing conducted in the Pacific Ocean in May 1980. The missile entered operational service in 1981. Development of the DF-5A variant began in 1986, focusing on increased throw-weight and refined guidance.

The missile utilizes a two-stage liquid-propellant engine using unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) and nitrogen tetroxide (NTO). Launch preparation involves a fueling process that takes between 30 and 60 minutes for silo-based units and up to two hours for units stored in tunnels. Guidance is provided by an inertial system integrated with on-board computers, achieving an accuracy of approximately 800 meters circular error probable (CEP).

Warhead configurations vary by variant. The DF-5 and DF-5A carry a single nuclear warhead with a blast yield of 4–5 Mt. The DF-5B and DF-5C variants employ Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRV). The DF-5B is capable of carrying approximately 12 warheads with individual yields of 1 Mt. The DF-5C variant has also been tested with a 12-warhead MIRV configuration.

The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force is the sole operator of the system. Initial deployment in 1981 featured silo-based launchers in Central China. The missile is also stored in horizontal positions within mountain tunnels; these units must be moved to tunnel mouths for fueling and launch. To enhance survivability, the operator maintains decoy silos consisting of excavations and headworks that replicate the appearance of operational silos. The DF-5 is widely deployed, with the MIRV-equipped DF-5B variant forming a portion of the active force. There are no recorded instances of combat use.