China’s state media has, for the first time, released footage showing the launch of the DF-17 hypersonic missile during a joint military exercise in the Gobi Desert, highlighting the People’s Liberation Army’s growing focus on mobility, automation and operational flexibility.
The exercise involved missile units, ground forces and Air Force elements, with state broadcaster CCTV saying the latest missile systems are designed to operate with greater mobility, improved strike accuracy and higher levels of automation, even in adverse weather and without relying on fixed launch sites.
Exercise highlights flexible missile operations
According to CCTV, the drill simulated multiple waves of attacks in a complex battlefield environment featuring intense electromagnetic interference and threats from precision strikes.
Throughout the exercise, missile units remained on combat patrol and rapidly switched between different operational modes as new orders were issued, demonstrating their ability to respond under changing battlefield conditions.
The exercise reflects a shift in China’s military doctrine from operating mainly at prepared launch positions to adopting more dispersed, mobile and less predictable deployment patterns.
DF-17 underscores modernisation efforts
The public display of the DF-17 in launch configuration is viewed as a demonstration of China’s efforts to strengthen not only its missile capabilities but also the operational readiness of its missile force.
The DF-17 is equipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle capable of travelling at high speed while manoeuvring during flight, making it more difficult for conventional air defence and missile defence systems to intercept, particularly during the terminal phase.
Rocket Force expands strategic capability
The People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force is responsible for China’s primary ballistic and cruise missile systems, including both conventional and nuclear capabilities.
Over the years, China has expanded its missile arsenal into a more diversified force with systems designed for different operational ranges and missions.
The ‘Dongfeng’, or ‘East Wind’, missile family includes the DF-17, DF-26, DF-31 and DF-61, which Chinese state media described as key components of the country’s broader military modernisation and strategic deterrence capability.
By releasing footage of missile systems operating under simulated battlefield conditions with electronic interference and precision-strike threats, Beijing sought to demonstrate that these weapons are actively integrated into realistic military training alongside other branches of the armed forces.
