China Unveils CJ-1000 Hypersonic Cruise Missile With “Powerful Penetration”

Beijing – China has officially presented its latest hypersonic cruise missile, the CJ-1000, during a grand military parade in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. The missile is described by Chinese state media as having “powerful penetration” and “instant-launch” strike capabilities.

What Happened in Beijing

On Wednesday, formations of advanced weapons rolled through the parade, including the CJ-20A, YJ-18C, and the newly unveiled CJ-1000. Each missile system is linked to different military branches: the air force, navy, and the rocket force.

The CJ-1000 hypersonic missile is considered an upgrade of the CJ-100, which was first shown in 2019. According to Xinhua News Agency, it is designed for long-range precision strikes. Military experts believe the missile can target heavily defended and time-sensitive assets such as mobile rocket launchers and command vehicles.

Why It Matters

Hypersonic weapons are a priority for global military powers. These missiles can fly at speeds above Mach 5, making them extremely difficult to intercept. China, the United States, and Russia are all investing heavily in such technology.

The U.S. Army recently deployed its Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) in the Western Pacific during July war games. The first operational LRHW unit is expected by the end of this month.

For comparison, America’s Tomahawk cruise missile has a range of about 1,000 miles but flies at subsonic speed. China’s earlier CJ-100 could already reach 1,864 to 2,485 miles, striking U.S. bases in Guam from mainland China. The extended range of the CJ-1000, however, has not been revealed.

Expert Opinions

Chinese military analyst Shao Yongling said the CJ-1000’s faster speed and advanced maneuverability give it a strong chance of breaking through existing missile defense systems.

The Pentagon’s China military power report also noted that the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force plays a vital role in Beijing’s nuclear deterrence and regional conflict strategies.

What’s Next

It is unclear when China will conduct the first live test of the CJ-1000. Analysts suggest a future launch could be used to send a message to U.S. forces operating in the Western Pacific.