Overview
- The latest U.S. military power report says China probably advanced an early‑warning counterstrike posture in 2024 and likely loaded more than 100 DF‑31 missiles across the Hami, Yulin and Yumen silo fields.
- Analysts and Pentagon data indicate the three complexes hold roughly 320 silos in total, with about 120 at Yumen, 110 at Hami and 90 at Yulin after construction completed in 2022.
- The report assesses China probably expanded space‑based missile warning by launching two satellites able to detect an intercontinental launch within about 90 seconds, supported by long‑range ground radars.
- China publicly showcased new long‑range systems at a September parade, including DF‑31BJ variants linked by outside experts to the silo fields and the DF‑5C described by state media as a global‑range missile.
- The Pentagon estimates China has more than 600 warheads today and is on track toward roughly 1,000 by 2030, while Chinese officials cite a lean force, dispute U.S. claims and call on Washington to cut its arsenal.