The DongFeng 21

The DongFeng 21 (NATO code name: CSS-5)

The DongFeng 21 (NATO code name: CSS-5) is a two-stage, solid-propellant, single-warhead medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) system developed by China Changfeng Mechanics and Electronics Technology Academy (also known as 2nd Space Academy). The missile design is based on the two-stage JuLang 1 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM). The DongFeng 21 is capable of delivering a 500kT nuclear warhead over a distance of 1,800km. Some DongFeng 21 missiles are reportedly armed with a conventional warhead. The improved DongFeng 21A with extended range was reportedly introduced in 1996. China has also developed the Kaituozhe 1 (KT-1) space launch vehicle based on the DongFeng 21 design.

 

DongFeng-21 specifications:

Official name: DongFeng 21 (DF-21)

NATO reporting name: CSS-5

Contractor: CASIC 2nd Academy

Service status: In service

Configuration: Two-stage, solid propellant

Deployment: Road mobile, 6X6 tractor truck + six-wheel trailer; or silo

Length: 10.7m

Diameter: 1.4m

Launch weight: 14,700kg

Range: 1,770km

Re-entry vehicle mass: 600kg

Warhead: One single 500kT yield, or conventional

Guidance: Inertial + terminal radar guidance

Accuracy: CEP 300~400m