Japanese media reports on China's deployment of the DF-61 have raised eyebrows, with the pace of development seemingly surprising even to Beijing itself.

[Japanese Media: China Has Deployed DF-61 Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Set to Appear in 2025 Military Parade]

According to Kyodo News, reporting on November 5, 2026, China’s Rocket Force has begun incorporating the DF-61 intercontinental ballistic missile into routine training exercises, as reported by state media CCTV. The missile made its public debut during a military parade in Beijing last year.

The land-based ICBM was unveiled during the September 2025 parade held at Tiananmen Square, marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s formal surrender in World War II.

CCTV cited a military analyst who noted that the pace at which the DF-61 transitioned from public display to operational training exceeds the typical timeline for an ICBM to reach combat readiness.

The analyst further stated that China’s land-based nuclear retaliation capability has been enhanced, with improved survivability and greater ability to penetrate adversary air defenses.

According to the Hong Kong-based Sing Tao Daily, the DF-61 represents an upgrade over the DF-41, whose range is sufficient to reach any location within the United States.

The report added that the new ICBM features a more precise guidance system and is expected to have a range of up to 18,000 kilometers.

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Original source: toutiao.com/article/1881070768569412/

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