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DF-31
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| DF-31 (CSS-9) | |
|---|---|
| DF-31 (CSS-9) | |
| Basic data | |
| Function | ICBM |
| Manufacturer | Academy of Rocket Motors Technology (ARMT) |
| Unit cost | ? |
| Entered service | 2006 (DF-31), 2007 (DF-31A) |
| General characteristics | |
| Engine | ? |
| Launch mass | 42,000kg |
| Length | 13.0m |
| Diameter | 2.25m |
| Wingspan | ? |
| Speed | ? |
| Range | 7,250 km[1] (DF-31), 11,200 km[1] (DF-31A) |
| Flying altitude | ? |
| Warhead | 1 Nuclear @ 1 MT or 3 Nuclear (DF-31A) @ 20, 90, or 150 kT each |
| Guidance | Inertial + stellar update |
| Launch platform | Silo, 8 axel TEL |
The Dong Feng 31 (a.k.a. CSS-9) is a medium-range, three stage, solid propellant intercontinental ballistic missile developed by the People's Republic of China. It is a land-based variant of the submarine launched JL-2. It is operated by the Second Artillery Corps (SAC) which is estimated to have 8-12 missiles in inventory[2].
Contents |
The DF-31 traces its origins to the JL-2 SLBM which entered development in the 1970's. The PRC began development on the DF-31 as a second-generation ICBM successor to the DF-4 in the mid-1980's. ARMT (then called the 4th Aerospace Academy) was appointed as the main contractor while the research arm of the Second Artillery Corps provided contributing support. The land-based variant of the JL-2 was originally called the DF-23 but was changed later on to the DF-31 because of a change in operational requirements. During its development, the DF-31 reportedly had technical problems with its solid fuel motors. The DF-31 reportedly was first test-fired on April 29, 1992, and exploded after launch due to component quality problems. The second launch also reportedly failed due to similar component problems. In 1999, the missile was first displayed publicly at the National Day Parade[3]. On August 2, 1999, the Chinese state news media reported the successful test of the DF-31 from a SAC base in Wuzai province. Operational deployment of the missiles reportedly began sometime between 2002-2003, but as of early 2006 the US Defense Department reported to Congress that initial deployment was expected later that year.
The PRC has developed an improved variant of the DF-31 called the DF-31A. This upgraded missile has a reported range of 11,270+ km[1], MIRV capability to hold 3 warheads each capable of a 20-150 kT yield, and penetration and decoy aids to complicate missile defense efforts. In early 2006 the US Defense Department reported to Congress that initial operational capability was expected in 2007.
- ^ a b c Office of the Secretary of Defense - Annual Report to Congress: Military Power of the People's Republic of China 2006 (PDF)[1]. 50
- ^ Jane’s Sentinel Security Assessment, China and Northeast Asia, Armed Forces, 7 November 2005
- ^ The Federation of American Scientists & The Natural Resources Defense Council (DF-31A) Nov, 2006. 73 (PDF)[2]
| Preceded by DF-4 |
DF-31 1999- |
Succeeded by DF-41 |