The Dongfeng-61 (, DF-61) is an intercontinental ballistic missile developed by the People’s Republic of China. It is likely nuclear-armed and may be a variant or successor to the DF-41.
Description
The DF-61 is a road-mobile missile and is likely nuclear-armed. The transporter erector launcher is seemingly identical to the one used by the DF-41; the DF-61 may be a variant or successor to the DF-41. Reported ranges include - similar to the DF-41- and
History The missile made its first official public appearance during the 2025 China Victory Day Parade as part of the nuclear missile section. A Federation of American Scientists article described the appearance of the DF-61 as a "surprise" since it seemed similar to the DF-41, a missile already deployed at the time.
Earlier "DF-61" program The "DF-61" designation was used by a tactical nuclear missile development program from 1976-1977. It was a response to North Korea's interest to acquire 600 km range missiles from China, although no agreement was made. Development began as a counter to the Soviet Union. The decision not to emphasize tactical weapons in the nuclear weapons program probably ended development.
References
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See also China and weapons of mass destruction