DEFENSE INTELLIGENCE BALLISTIC MISSILE ANALYSIS COMMITTEE2
KEY FINDINGS
Many countries view ballistic and cruise missile systems as
cost-effective weapons and symbols of national power,
especially when those systems are armed with weapons ofmass destruction. However, numerous types of ballistic andcruise missiles have achieved dramatic improvements inaccuracy that allow them to be used effectively withconventional warheads. Some weapon systems havecharacteristics of both ballistic and cruise missiles. For
example, ballistic missile-launched hypersonic glide vehicles(HGVs) can maneuver in the atmosphere similar to cruise
missiles, and future supersonic/hypersonic cruise missiles
may be launched by large rocket boosters. Highly accurateballistic and cruise missiles can be used to deter or counter
adversary forces deploying to or operating within a defined
space or theater.

Russia SS-27 ICBM TELNORTH KOREA
North Korea has a strong desire to develop long-range ballistic missile systems that can threaten the United States and its allies. Duringa 2012 military parade, North Korea unveiled its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-13, and subsequently
debuted the Hwasong-14 ICBM in an October 2015 parade. Flight testing of the Hwasong-10 (Musudan) intermediate-range ballistic
missile (IRBM) began in April 2016 with a series of failures. North Korea followed those failures by launching multiple new missiles in2017. In April 2017, North Korea also commenced flight testing of a new liquid-propellant IRBM, the Hwasong-12. That same year,
North Korea performed the inaugural flight tests of the Hwasong-14 and Hwasong-15 ICBMs. Upon its launch in 2017, the Hwasong-14
marked the first flight-tested ICBM-class missile for North Korea. North Korea also flight tested several new solid-propellant missiles—
including the Pukguksong-1 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SRBM), the Pukguksong-2 medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), andshort-range ballistic missiles (SRBM) - in 2016, 2017, and 2019, respectively.
IRAN
Tehran’s desire to have a strategic counter to the United States could drive it to field an ICBM. Progress in Iran’s space program could
shorten a pathway to an ICBM, because space launch vehicles (SLV) use inherently similar technologies. Since 2008, Iran has conducted
multiple launches of the two-stage Safir SLV, and the larger two-stage Simorgh SLV, which could serve as a test bed for developing ICBM
technologies. Iran has developed the Qiam-1 SRBM and the fourth-generation Fateh-110 SRBM, and Tehran claims to be massproducing ballistic missiles capable of striking ships. Iran has modified its Shahab 3 MRBM to extend its range and effectiveness and also
claims to have deployed the two-stage, solid-propellant Sejjil MRBM. In 2015, Iran publicized the launch of the Emad-1, which officials
claim is Iran’s first long-range missile that is guided throughout flight and capable of hitting its targets with high-precision. Iranian
officials have also announced plans for an Emad-2 with greater precision, as well as a new Sejjil that can be guided all the way to thetarget. In 2019, Iran publicized the launch of the Khorramshahr-2, which officials claim is Iran’s deadliest long-range missile, using thefins installed on the warhead to enable guidance throughout flight. Iran is also developing a ground-launched land-attack cruise missile(LACM).
CHINA
China continues to have the most active and diverse ballistic missile development program in the world. It is developing and testing
offensive missiles, forming additional missile units, upgrading missile systems, and developing methods to counter ballistic missile

3
defenses. China’s deployed ballistic missile force, operated by the People’s
Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and PLA Rocket Force (formerly known as Second
Artillery), is expanding in both number and diversity of system. China continues
to field conventionally-armed SRBMs such as the CSS-6 (DF-15) and the CSS-7(DF-11) opposite Taiwan, and has developed a number of mobile,
conventionally-armed MRBMs and IRBMs. Missiles such as the CSS-11 (DF-16),
CSS-22 (DF-17), CSS-5 Mod 4 (DF-21C) and Mod 5 (DF-21D), and CSS-18 (DF-26)
are key components of the Chinese military modernization program,specifically designed to prevent adversary military forces’ access to regional
conflicts. The CSS-5 Mod 5 and a variant of the CSS-18 have anti-ship missions.
China is also developing a shipborne anti–ship ballistic missile (ASBM) for
export. China has ground and air-launched LACMs.
China’s nuclear-armed missile force is also expanding with the number ofChinese ICBM nuclear warheads capable of reaching the United States
potentially expanding to well over 200 within the next 5 years. China is adding
the CSS-10 Mod 2 (DF-31A) and CSS-4 Mod 3 (DF-5B) to the ICBM force; the DF5B is China’s first ICBM with multiple independently-targetable reentry vehicles(MIRVs). The CSS-N-14 SLBM gives China its first long-range, sea-based nuclear
capability. China is also developing the CSS-20 (DF-41), a new MIRV-capable,
road-mobile ICBM and the DF-31AG road-mobile ICBM. China attributed both
nuclear and conventional missions to the CSS-18 displayed for the first time
during the Victory Day Parade in September 2015.

China CJ-10 & YJ-63 LACMs

China CSS-20 (DF-41) ICBMs

RUSSIA
Russia has approximately 1,400 deployed nuclear warheads on ICBMs and
SLBMs capable of reaching the United States. Despite arms control limitations
and resource constraints, development of new ICBM and SLBM systems is
proceeding, and Russia is expected to retain the largest force of strategicballistic missiles outside the United States. Testing of equipment associatedwith RS-26 Rubezh, which according to the Strategic Rocket Forces commander
is based on the SS-27 ICBM, continued in 2018. The BULAVA SLBM wasdeployed on the new DOLGORUKIY-class SSBNs. Officials have stated that China CSS-22 (DF-17) MRBM
Russia is set to begin flight testing a new heavy, liquid-propellant ICBM called
the Sarmat after multiple successful ejection tests of the missile during 2017 and 2018. In late 2019, Russia deployed the world’s first
ICBM-class hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) system, the SS-19 Mod-4
Avangard. Russia also has various LACMs that can be launched fromairborne, road-mobile, and naval platforms. According to open press
reports, Russia has used air- and naval-launched LACMs several times in
An emerging class of weapons that fly in Syria.

Hypersonic Glide Vehicles(HGVs)

the atmosphere following acceleration to
hypersonic speeds by ballistic missile
boosters.

4
THE THREAT
Guided cruise and ballistic missiles were first used when Germany attacked targets in England and Northern Europe with V-1 cruise
missiles and V-2 ballistic missiles during World War II. Although these missiles were inaccurate, their use resulted in tens of thousands ofAllied civilians being killed or injured, with substantial psychological effects.
Ballistic and cruise missiles present a significant threat to US and Allied forces overseas, and to the United States homeland andterritories. Missiles are attractive to many nations as they can be used effectively against an adversary with a formidable air defense
system when an attack with manned aircraft would be impractical or too costly. In addition, missiles can be used as a deterrent or an
instrument of coercion. Missiles also have the advantage of fewer maintenance, training, and logistic requirements than manned aircraft.
Even limited use of these weapons could have devastating consequences if armed with chemical, biological, or nuclear warheads.
The ballistic and cruise missile threat continues to increase with the advancement and proliferation of missile technology. Missiles willcontinue to be a threat in future conflicts involving US forces. Ballistic missiles have been used in several conflicts over the last 30 years,
including the Iran-Iraq war, the Afghan civil war, the war in Yemen, the 1991 and 2003 Persian Gulf conflicts, the Russian military actionsin Chechnya and Georgia, in the conflicts in Syria and Ukraine, and most recently Iran against US forces in Iraq on 8 January 2020. Russia
used land-attack cruise missiles for the first time during the conflict in Syria.
The US Armed Forces are responsible for countering the ballistic and cruise missile threat through deterrence, and if necessary active
suppression. Threat suppression may include attacks on missile systems, both before launch and during flight, and attacks on theirsupporting infrastructure. This document includes information on a variety of the major current and projected foreign ballistic and cruise
missiles.
The table and timeline depict selected ballistic missiles to highlight first flight tests, discovery of notable systems, and significant
development achievements for various countries.

KEY BALLISTIC MISSILE SYSTEM HIGHLIGHTS

5
HISTORY OF NOTABLE BALLISTIC MISSILE SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT#

SystemCountryYear

Range (km)#SystemCountryYear

Range (km)1

V-2 SRBM

Germany

1942

320

21

SS-27 ICBM

Russia1994

11,000+2

SS-1 SRBM

Soviet Union

1948

270

22

SS-26 SRBM

Russia

1996

350

3

SS-2 SRBM

Soviet Union

1949

1,200

23

Taepo Dong- MRBMNorth Korea

1998

2,000+

4

SS-3 MRBM

Soviet Union

1955

1,200

24

Shahab 3 MRBM

Iran

1998

Up to 2,0005

SS-6 ICBM

Soviet Union

1957

8,000+

25

Agni-II MRBM

India

1999

2,000+

6

SS-9 ICBM

Soviet Union

1963

10,200+26

CSS-10 ICBM

China

1999

7,000+

7

CSS-1 MRBM

China

1964

1,250

27

Agni-I SRBM

India

2002

700

8

CSS-2 MRBM

China

1966

2,500

28

Fateh-110 SRBM

Iran

2002

300

9

SS-13 ICBM

Soviet Union

1966

9,500

29

CSS-5 Mod 5 MRBM

China

Mid-2000s

1,500+

10

CSS-3 ICBM

China

1970

5,500+

30

Taepo Dong 2 ICBM/SLVNorth Korea

2006

12,000+11

CSS-4 ICBM

China

1971

12,000+31

Sejjil MRBM

Iran

2009

2,000

12

SS-18 ICBM

Russia1973

10,000+32

Emad-1 MRBM

Iran

2015

Up to 2,00013

SS-19 ICBM

Russia1973

9,000+

33

Shaheen-3 MRBM

Pakistan

2015

2,750

14

SS-20 IRBM

Russia

1976

5,500

34

Ababeel IRBM

Pakistan

2017

2,200

15

CSS-5 MRBM

China

Late 1970s

1,750+

35

Pukguksong-2 MRBMNorth Korea

2017

1,000+

16

JL-1 SLBM

China

1981

1,700

36

Hwasong-12 IRBM

North Korea

2017

4,500+

17

SS-24 ICBM

Russia1982

10,100+37

Hwasong-14 ICBM

North Korea

2017

10,000+18

SS-25 ICBM

Russia1983

11,000+38

Hwasong-15 ICBM

North Korea

2017

12,000+19

SCUD-B SRBM

North Korea

1984

300

39

SS-19 Mod-4 ICBM/HGV

Russia2019

10,000+20

No Dong MRBMNorth Korea

1993

1,200+

6
WARHEADS AND TARGETS
Ballistic and cruise missiles can be armed with conventional or
nonconventional warheads. Conventional warheads rely on thedetonation of an explosive and are designed for various effects.
Nonconventional warheads include weapons of mass destruction(nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons) and non-lethal warheads thatare designed to disable equipment rather than harm personnel.
Conventional, biological, and chemical weapons are packaged in unitary(single) warheads or submunitions (multiple small bomblets that are
released at altitude to disperse over an area).
Conventional warheads are optimized for specific types of targets. For
example, submunitions may be used to create craters in an airfieldrunway or a carrier flight deck, optimize the dispersal of anti-personnel
munitions, or deploy non-lethal substances. Various penetrator warheads
can be employed to damage hardened or underground facilities andequipment. A kinetic penetrator, which uses a relatively small amount of
explosive surrounded by a heavy metal casing, can pass through ahardened structure, such as a bunker, to destroy its contents. A tandem
penetrator can utilize an explosively formed projectile to create a pilot
hole that a follow-through grenade can pass. These penetrators are likely
effective against metallic structures such as hangars and carrier decks.

Russia SS-N-32 Bulava SLBM

Many ballistic missiles and several types of LACMs carry nuclear warheads. Most of these warheads have an explosive force that far
exceeds the destructive power of the atomic bombs used in World War II.
Chemical and biological weapons are attractive to some countries because they are much easier to produce than nuclear weapons.
Accuracy is not very important for these weapons when used against urban areas or large concentrations of military forces. Chemicaland biological weapons can be packaged in submunitions to be dispersed over a wide area, although effective dispersion from aballistic missile can be challenging. They are capable of producing massive casualties, inducing panic and chaos in civilian populations,and severely degrading military operations.

North Korea Hwasong-12 IRBM

Russia BEAR H with Kh-101 LACMs

7

Iran Zolfaghar SRBM

Russia SS-21 CRBM

North Korea Hwasong-15 ICBM

North Korea Hwasong-10 (Musudan) IRBM

8
BALLISTIC MISSILES
Ballistic missiles can be deployed in silos and other fixed facilities, on submarines, surface ships, road- and rail-mobile launchers and on
aircraft. Mobile missiles can provide greater pre-launch survivability. The last decade has seen a dramatic increase in ballistic missile
capabilities and combat effectiveness.
Some shorter range missiles remain intact until the warhead detonates, whereas, others have a warhead in a reentry vehicle (RV) that
separates from the booster. Most long-range ballistic missiles also feature separating payloads, with some long-range ballistic missiles
carrying up to 10 RVs per missile. RVs reenter the Earth’s atmosphere at very high velocities, on the order of 6-8 kilometers per second(Mach 23+) at ICBM ranges. Some types of reentry vehicles have the capability to maneuver to avoid defenses and/or increase accuracy.
Hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs) are being developed as a new type of payload launched by ballistic missiles. HGVs are maneuverable
vehicles that travel at hypersonic (greater than Mach 5) speed and spend most of their flight at much lower altitudes than a typicalballistic missile. The combination of high speed, maneuverability, and relatively low altitude makes them challenging targets for missile
defense systems. Russia deployed the worlds first HGV in 2019, and China publicly revealed a missile carrying an HGV, also in 2019.
Ballistic missiles can use solid- or liquid-propellant rocket propulsion systems. The trend in modern missile systems has been toward theuse of solid propellants because of their reduced logistical requirements and simplicity of operation. However, some nations have greater
access to liquid-propellant technology and continue to develop new liquid-propellant missiles. In addition, liquid-propellant missiles canbe more efficient than solid-propellant missiles for very heavy payloads. The missiles with the world’s heaviest payloads, the Russian SS18 and Chinese CSS-4, are liquid-propellant ICBMs, and Russia is developing a new heavy-lift, liquid-propellant ICBM called the Sarmat.

9Multi-stage missiles, with each stage having its own independent propulsion system, are more efficient for longer range missions. ICBMs
typically have two or three stages, with powerful liquid-propellant engines or solid-propellant motors to propel the payload toward its
target, and a post-boost vehicle (PBV) with a much smaller propulsion system. A PBV can be used to improve the RV deployment
accuracy for a single-RV missile. For a missile with a MIRV payload, the PBV is used to release RVs so that they follow different
trajectories, allowing them to hit separate targets. Certain ICBMs with MIRV payloads can hit targets separated by over 1,500 kilometerswith a single missile.
Many ballistic missiles carry penetration aids to improve the chances of an RV defeating a ballistic missile defense system. Penetration
aids are devices intended to deceive, obscure, or jam sensors used to detect and track missiles and RVs. They are of increasing
importance to countries developing and operating ballistic missiles. Other techniques that complicate missile defense operations
include separating payloads, multiple RVs, depressed trajectories, and boost-phase, midcourse, or terminal maneuvers.
An ICBM with a high-quality inertial guidance system is capable of delivering an RV within a few hundred meters of the target after aflight of 10,000 kilometers. For many missiles, accuracy can be greatly improved by utilizing satellite-aided navigation. Missiles also canuse maneuvering RVs with terminal sensors to attain very high accuracy. The use of improved guidance techniques and a maneuver
capability can allow conventionally-armed ballistic missiles to be used effectively against many fixed targets, as well as moving targets
such as ships at sea.
As increasingly modern guidance technology is proliferated, countries will be able to improve the accuracy and lethality of their missile
forces. However, even a missile with a guidance system only accurate enough to hit a large city is capable of inflicting massive casualties
when armed with a weapon of mass destruction.

10
LAUNCH TRENDS
Over the last decade, there has been a significant increase in worldwide ballistic missile testing. The emphasis on ballistic missile development around the world is noted by Chinese scholars who stated in 2010 that, “ballistic missiles have become an important factor that
influences the world political setup, controls the battlefield posture, and even decides the outcome of war” and “it is appropriate to saythat ballistic missiles have become an important sign of national defense strength and symbol of national status.”
The graphic below depicts the approximate number of ballistic missiles launched per year from 2005 to 2018. In the graphic, ballistic missiles are categorized by range, regardless of launch platform; missiles with a range of 1,000 km or greater are classified as long-range ballistic missiles (LRBM) and missiles with a range from 300 km – 1,000 km are classified as short-range ballistic missiles(SRBM). This graphic does not include close-range ballistic missiles (CRBM), which are missiles with a range less than 300 km, or ballistic
missiles launched in combat.

11

Iran Qiam-1 SRBM

Russia SS-18 Mod 5 ICBM
Russia SS-25 ICBM

North Korea Hwasong-14 ICBM

12
IN-FLIGHT MANEUVERABILITY, ACCURACY, & DEFENSE PENETRATION
Traditionally, a ballistic missile is understood to be a projectile that assumes a free-fall trajectory after a boost phase using internalguidance. Some newer “ballistic” missiles are stretching this definition as they move beyond purely ballistic trajectories, and areincluding maneuvers during flight and various means to increase accuracy. Some missiles today have characteristics of both ballistic andcruise missiles. Modern ballistic missiles can include maneuvers during boost, midcourse, and/or terminal phases of flight. Some ballistic
missiles payloads remain in the atmosphere for large portions of their flight with control provided by aerodynamic surfaces. In-flightmaneuvers, combined with guidance updates, can allow ballistic missiles to be precision strike weapons.
Nearly all of our adversaries are concerned with US missile defenses and have devised various methods to complicate missile defense
operations. Traditional countermeasures include penetration aids such as balloons, chaff, decoys, and jammers, whereas in-flightmaneuverability or multiple RVs serve as more modern forms of missile defense countermeasures.

13

Russia SS-18 Mod 5 ICBM Launch Canister

Pakistan Shaheen-2 MRBM

Russia SS-27 Mod 2 ICBM

Iran Emad-1 MRBM

14
CLOSE-RANGE BALLISTIC MISSILES (CRBM)
States including Russia, China, North Korea, Pakistan, India, andIran are likely pursuing increased accuracy, range, and lethality for
their close-range ballistic missile systems. China is likely marketing
and/or producing multiple CRBMs with a maximum range of justunder 300 km and marketing the B611MR and WS-640 CRBMs,
which are equipped with an anti-radiation homing seeker. CRBM
variants currently in research and development (R&D) or inproduction worldwide are included in the chart on page 15.
China and Russia are producing and marketing CRBMs with various
warheads. These warheads likely include dual-purpose improved
conventional munition (DPICM), thermobaric, and high explosive

China BP-12A CRBM

Iran CSS-8 CRBM

India Prithvi II CRBM

15
warheads. The improved accuracy of CRBMs, as compared to
unguided artillery rockets, increases the probability that thewarhead blast-wave or the warhead's fragments will reach theintended target and neutralize it.
Iran and North Korea are likely progressing towards producing theFadjr-5 Aero CRBM and KN-SS-9, respectively. If the Iranians andNorth Koreans use satellite navigation systems (such as GPS)onboard their CRBMs, then the miss distance of these CRBMs
could be reduced to tens of meters. Increased CRBM accuracy
would be a force multiplier for both the Iranian and North Korean
artillery forces by giving them precision strike capability againsthigh priority targets.

Russia SS-21 Mod 3 CRBM

16

Pakistan Hatf-9

Russia SS-21 Mod 2

China M20

China BRE7

17
CLOSE-RANGE BALLISTIC MISSILESCOUNTRY/SYSTEMSBRAZIL
SS-150MAX RANGE (km)

150

CHINA

COUNTRY/SYSTEMSMAX RANGE (km)ISRAEL
Romach (“Magic Spear”)
STRIKESACCULAR
MLRS-TCS
JUMPERExTRA (HE, Cluster, Penetration, MIMS)
Predator Hawk
LORA

35
40
40
45
50
150
250
300

NORTH KOREA
Toksa
KN-SS-9

120
200

WS-22

40

BRE7/Fire Dragon 40

40

GR1/King Dragon 60

70

BRC-3 (300-mm PHL-03/AR2/AR1/AR1A/AR3)70

A100-111

80

A100-311

120

WS-64

280

BRC-4 (300-mm PHL-03/AR2/AR1/AR1A/AR3)130

BRE-2(300-mm PHL-03/AR2/AR1/AR1A/AR3)

150

PAKISTAN
Hatf-150

BRE-3/Fire Dragon 140 (300-mm PHL-03/AR2/AR1/
AR1A/AR3)150

NASR (Hatf-9)
Abdali (Hatf-2)

60
200

BP-12A280

RUSSIA

B611

150

M20

280

WS-2 (HE, TBX, DPICM)

200

122-mm Guided
SS-21 Mod 2
9M55 (F, K, K1, K3, K4, K5, K6, K7, S)

WS-3

200

A300

40
70
70

9M5 (25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 36, 37)

90

280

SS-21 Mod 3
9M542

120
120

B611M

260

SERBIA

BRE-8/Fire Dragon 280 (370-mm AR3)280

Guided 128-mm
Jerina-1

21
285

SOUTH KOREA
130 MM CRBM

36

INDIA
Pinaka-II Guided

65

Prithvi I

150

Prahar150

Prithvi II

250

>75

CSS-8

150

Zelzal250

SYRIA
SS-21 Mod 2

Note: All ranges are approximate.

80

Chunmoo-II 400-mm CRBM
Chunmoo III 600-mm CRBM

180
290

THAILANDIRAN
Fadjr-5 Aero

Chunmoo I 239-mm CRBM

70

DTI-1G

150

TURKEY
TRG-122 CRBM

35

“Tiger” 300-mm CRBM

120

TRG-230 CRBM

70

Bora

280

18
SHORT-RANGE BALLISTIC MISSILES (SRBM)
Several countries are now producing and/or developing SRBM systems, while manyother countries have purchased SRBMs or SRBM technologies.
The Russian SS-1C Mod 1, also called the SCUD B, has been exported to morecountries than any other type of guided ballistic missile, and has proven to be a
versatile and adaptable weapon. For example, the Iraqi SCUD missiles used during
the 1991 Persian Gulf War were modified to double their range. North Korea has
produced its own version of the SCUD B and developed extended range variants
including the SCUD C, the SCUD D, and the SCUD ER.
New SRBM systems are in development in several countries. China has deployed avery large force of modern solid-propellant SRBMs in the vicinity of Taiwan. In
August 2010, Iranian officials hailed the successful test firing of the liquidpropellant Qiam-1 SRBM. Around the same time, the Iranian Minister of Defense
told reporters that the third generation of the Fateh-110 missile had beensuccessfully test fired, and that the system was officially delivered to the missile
force in September 2010. North Korea began testing three new solid-propellant
SRBMs in 2019, each with multiple missiles per launcher.
In 2012, Iran claimed to have also successfully flight tested a fourth-generation
Fateh-110. Iran has also flight tested an anti-ship capable variant of its Fateh-110
missile. A seeker has likely been added to the missile to improve the system’s
accuracy against sea-based targets. Iran is also fielding newer longer-range solidpropellant SRBMs including the Zolfaghar and Fateh-313.
Recent conflicts have highlighted missile defense capabilities, motivating ballistic
missile developers to pursue missile defense countermeasures. Some SRBM

India Agni I SRBM

Russia SS-26 SRBM

China CSS 7-Mod 2 SRBM

19
developers have already begun to develop countermeasures such as maneuverable RVs (MaRVs), and are expected to continue
countermeasure development. Iran also added a MaRV to the Qiam missile, likely to improve the systems overall accuracy.
On 7 January 2020, Iran launched at least 15 SRBMs at U.S. forces in Iraq in retaliation for the death of Qasem Soleimani. Those missiles
included the Fateh-313 and the Qiam with a MaRV and demonstrated the accuracy of these two systems as they impacted near buildings
and equipment on Al Asad Air Base.

Iran Qiam-1 SRBM Jet Vane System

China CSS-6 Mod 3 SRBM

20

Multi-Country SCUD-C SRBM

Russia SS-26 Iskander SRBM

China CSS-11 Variants

Pakistan Ghaznavi SRBM

21
SHORT-RANGE BALLISTIC MISSILESCOUNTRY/SYSTEMSPROPELLANTDEPLOYMENT MODE

MAXIMUM RANGE (km)CSS-6 Mod 1

Solid

Road-Mobile

600

CSS-6 Mod 2

Solid

Road-Mobile

850+

CSS-6 Mod 3

SolidRoad-Mobile725+

CSS-7 Mod 1

Solid

Road-Mobile

300

CSS-7 Mod 2

Solid

Road-Mobile

600

CSS-11 Mod 1

Solid

Road-Mobile

700+

CSS-11 Mod 2

Solid

Road-Mobile

700+

Solid

Road-Mobile

700

Fateh-110

Solid

Road-Mobile

300

Fateh-313

Solid

Road-Mobile

500

Shahab 1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

300

Shahab 2

LiquidRoad-Mobile

500

Qiam-1LiquidRoad-Mobile & Silo

750

Zolfaghar

SolidRoad-Mobile

700

SCUD B

LiquidRoad-Mobile

300

SCUD C

LiquidRoad-Mobile

500

Ghaznavi

Solid

Road-Mobile

300

Shaheen I

Solid

Road-Mobile

750

SCUD B (SS-1c Mod 1)

LiquidRoad-Mobile

300

SS-26 (Iskander-M/E)

Solid

Road-Mobile

350

Fateh-110

Solid

Road-Mobile

300

SCUD D

LiquidRoad-Mobile

700

NUMBER OF LAUNCHERS*

CHINA

More than 200

INDIA
Agni I

Fewer than 75

IRAN

Fewer than 100

NORTH KOREA
Fewer than 100

PAKISTAN
Fewer than 50

RUSSIA
Fewer than 200

SYRIA
Fewer than 100
Note: All ranges are approximate*The missile inventory may be larger than the number of launchers; launchers can be reused to fire additional missiles.

22
MEDIUM-(MRBM) & INTERMEDIATE-RANGE BALLISTIC MISSILES (IRBM)
New MRBM and/or IRBM systems have been flight tested or are in development in China, Iran, India,
North Korea, Pakistan, and Russia, and many will be armed with nonconventional warheads. All ofthese countries except Iran have tested nuclear weapons.
Since 1987, Russia has been restricted from deploying ground-based ballistic missiles with amaximum range between 500 km and 5,500 km by the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF)
Treaty. In response to the announced US withdrawal from the INF Treaty in 2019, Russian officials
indicated they plan to redirect funds to create land-based systems with ranges over 500 km. Russian
Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu suggested creating land-based versions of sea- and air-launchedmissiles to shorten the development timeline, potentially referring to the sea-launched Tsirkon or the
air-launched Kinzhal ALBM.
China continues to deploy nuclear-armed MRBMs to maintain regional nuclear deterrence, and its
long-term, comprehensive military modernization is improving the capability of its conventionallyarmed ballistic missile force to conduct high-intensity regional military operations, including “antiaccess and area denial” (A2/AD) operations. Currently, China deploys the CSS-5 Mod 2 for regional
nuclear deterrence. China has the conventionally-armed CSS-5 Mod 4 and Mod 5 MRBMs to conduct
precision strikes. The CSS-5 Mod 4 (DF-21C) is intended to hold at risk or strike logistics andcommunication nodes, regional military bases and airfields, or ports. China has also deployed the CSS-5 Mod 5 (DF-21D), an anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) with a range exceeding 1,500 km and amaneuverable reentry vehicle (MaRV) that gives the PLA the capability to attack aircraft carriers in
the western Pacific Ocean. According to a Chinese CCTV report, the DF-21D brigades are capable ofquickly reloading in the field and launching multiple salvo strikes within a few hours. During the PLA’s
90th Anniversary Parade in July 2017, China displayed a new MRBM designated the DF-16G, which
China claims features high accuracy, short preparation time, and an improved maneuverable
terminal stage that can better infiltrate missile defense systems. As part of its National Day Parade in
October 2019 celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the Peoples’ Republic of China, China displayed its
DF-17 medium-range hypersonic missile.
Official Chinese media commentary described the DF-26 IRBM as “one carrier, many warheads.”
Chinese media has stated the DF-26 can carry a conventional or nuclear payload and that it canlaunch conventional medium and long-range precision strikes against important targets on land andlarge ships at sea. It also requires little support equipment and has fast reaction times, according todescriptions in official Chinese media outlets.

Iran Emad MRBM

Pakistan Shaheen-2 MRBM

23
North Korea has diversified its ballistic missile force to include longer-range solid- and liquid-propellant systems. North Korea first tested
the Pukguksong-2—the land variant of the Pukguksong-1 SLBM tested in April 2016—from a tracked launcher. This marked an
important milestone in North Korea’s solid-propellant program for road-mobile systems. The Hwasong-10 (Musudan) experienced
several in-flight failures in 2016, and in April 2017, North Korea debuted the Hwasong-12 IRBM with its inaugural launch. The Hwasong12 IRBM flew twice more in April of 2017 and an additional three times by the end of 2017, to include two overflights of Japan (inAugust and September), for a total of six test flights. North Korea claims that the Hwasong-12 is meant to serve as a medium-long range
strategic ballistic missile with a range of 3,000 – 4,000 km capable of reaching Guam.
Iran has an extensive missile development program. Iran has modified the Shahab 3 MRBM, which is derived from the North Korean No
Dong, to extend its range and effectiveness, with the longest range variant reportedly being able to reach targets at a distance of about
2,000 km. Iran claims to have mass produced Shahab 3 missiles and has conducted multiple launches of the Sejjil, a solid-propellant
MRBM with a claimed range of 2,000 km. In 2015, Iran publicized the launch of the Emad-1 missile, which officials claim is Iran’s firstlong-range missile that is guided throughout flight and capable of hitting targets with high-precision. Iran also announced plans for an
Emad-2 with greater precision than the Emad-1. In 2019, Iran publicized the launch of the Khorramshahr-2, which officials claim is Iran’s
deadliest long-range missile and is guided throughout flight using the fins installed on the warhead.

24
India continues to develop and improve its ballistic missiles. All of India’s long-range missiles use solid propellants. The Agni II MRBM
and Agni III IRBM are deployed. The Agni IV IRBM has been successfully flight tested seven times since a failure in 2010, but Indian
officials still say further testing is required before deployment. The Agni V has been flight tested seven times, with the last five tests
being launched from a sealed canister aboard a road-mobile launcher. More flight testing is required before deployment.
Pakistan continues to improve the readiness and capabilities of its Army Strategic Force Command and individual strategic missile
groups through training exercises that include live missile firings. Pakistan has tested its solid-propellant Shaheen-2 MRBM seven times
since 2004. In 2015, Pakistan began testing a longer range Shaheen-3 MRBM and, in January 2017, began testing the MIRV version of
the Ababeel MRBM.

NK Hwasong-10 IRBM

Iran Shahab 3 MRBM

China CSS-22 (DF-17) MRBMNK Pukguksong-2 MRBM

25
MEDIUM AND INTERMEDIATE-RANGE BALLISTIC MISSILESCOUNTRY/SYSTEMSNUMBER OF
STAGESPROPELLANTDEPLOYMENTMODEMAXIMUM RANGE(km)

NUMBER OF LAUNCHERS*

CSS-5 Mod 2 MRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

1,750+

CSS-5 Mod 4 MRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

1,500+

CSS-5 Mod 5 MRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

1,500+

CSS-18 (DF-26) IRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

3,000+

CSS-22 (DF-17) MRBM

1

Solid

Road-Mobile

UNK

Agni II MRBM

2

Solid

Rail-Mobile

2,000+

Fewer than 10

Agni III IRBM

2

Solid

Rail-Mobile

3,200+

Fewer than 10

Agni IV IRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

3,500+

Not Yet Deployed

Agni V IRBM

3

Solid

Road-Mobile

5,000+

Not Yet Deployed

Shahab 3 MRBM

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

Up to 2,000

Undetermined

Emad-1 MRBM

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

Up to 2,000

Undetermined

Khorramshahr

1LiquidRoad-Mobile

2,000

Undetermined

Khorramshahr-2

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

2,000

Undetermined

Sejjil (Ashura) MRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

2,000

UndeterminedPukguksong-2 MRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

1,000+

Undetermined

ER SCUD MRBM

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

1,000

Undetermined

No Dong Mod 1/2 MRBM

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

1,200+

Fewer than 100

Hwasong-12 IRBM

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

4,500+

Undetermined

Hwasong-10 (Musudan) IRBM

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

3,000+

Fewer than 50

Ghuari MRBM

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

1,250

Fewer than 50

Shaheen 2 MRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

2,000

Fewer than 50

Shaheen 3 MRBM

2

Solid

Road-Mobile

2,750

Not Yet Deployed

Ababeel MRBM

3

Solid

Unknown

2,200

Not Yet Deployed1

LiquidTransportable

3,000

Fewer than 50

CHINA

Approximately
350

INDIA

IRAN

NORTH KOREAPAKISTANSAUDI ARABIACSS-2 MRBM (Chinese-produced)
Note: All ranges are approximate*The missile inventory may be larger than the number of launchers; launchers can be reused to fire additional missiles.

26
INTERCONTINENTAL BALLISTIC MISSILES (ICBM)
Both China and Russia currently deploy multiple types of ICBMs and are modernizing their ICBM forces.
North Korea demonstrated its first ICBM-class systems in 2017, with the inaugural launch of the Hwasong14 and then the Hwasong-15, later that same year. India is developing an ICBM, and Iran may also
develop an ICBM.
On 5 February 2018, the limits prescribed by the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty were to be reachedby both Russia and the United States. This treaty limits the United States and Russia each to no more than
1,550 warheads and 700 deployed launchers (including warheads on ICBMs and SLBMs, and counting eachheavy bomber as one warhead). Russia retains over 1,000 nuclear warheads on ICBMs. Most of thesemissiles are maintained on alert, capable of being launched within minutes of receiving a launch order.
Although the number of missiles in the Russian ICBM force will continue to decrease because of arms
control agreements, aging missiles, and resource constraints, Russia probably will retain the largest ICBM
force outside the United States. Efforts to maintain and modernize the force are underway.
The Russian SS-27 Mod 1 ICBM, a missile designed with countermeasures to ballistic missile defense
systems, is now deployed in the silos of six regiments and on road-mobile launchers. A road-mobile MIRV
version of the SS-27, the SS-27 Mod 2 (RS-24, YaRS), was first deployed in 2010, and continues to replace
the aging SS-25. At least twelve mobile-missile regiments have already deployed, according to Russianpress reports. Furthermore, Russia began deploying a silo-based version of the SS-27 Mod 2 in 2014 to
replace the SS-19 Mod 3. In addition to the SS-27 ICBM, according to the commander of the Strategic
Rocket Forces, Russia is developing a lighter and shorter-range road-mobile missile based on the SS-27
Mod 2, known as the RS-26 Rubezh (US designator SS-28). While the Russian press indicated the missile
was initially tested to ICBM range, senior government officials have described the system as a “missile
defense killer” capable of hitting targets anywhere in Europe. Although the Russian press reported thatwork on the RS-26 Rubezh was paused or cancelled, testing of Rubezh associated equipment continued in2018.
In 2018, Russian President Vladimir Putin unveiled the development of two new ICBM systems, including
an ICBM-class hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) and a new, heavy-lift, liquid-propellant ICBM capable offlying trajectories over the south pole to approach the continental US from the south. The HGV system,
named Avangard, is designed to penetrate the US missile defense system and strike at critical targets witha nuclear warhead. Russian officials claim Russia began to deploy the HGV mounted on SS-19 boosters at
Dombarovskiy Missile Division in late 2019 and ultimately plans to deploy twelve Avangard systems at
Dombarovskiy by 2027. The new liquid-propellant ICBM named Sarmat will replace the aging SS-18 Mod 5(Voyevoda). Russia’s goal is to begin deployment of the Sarmat in 2021, initially at the Uzhur missile
division.
China is strengthening its strategic nuclear deterrent force
with the development and deployment of new ICBMs. China
retains a relatively small number of nuclear-armed, liquidpropellant CSS-3 (DF-4) limited range ICBMs and CSS-4 (DF-5)
ICBMs capable of reaching the United States.

Russia SS-25 ICBM
China CSS-20 (DF-41) ICBM

China first displayed the CSS-4 Mod 3 (DF-5B) ICBM with aclaimed MIRV payload in 2015. It is also modernizing its
nuclear forces by adding more survivable, road-mobile

27
delivery systems. The road-mobile, solid-propellant CSS-10 Mod 2 has been deployed to units within the PLA Rocket Force and will allow
for targeting of most of the continental United States. China is developing the CSS-20 (DF-41), a new MIRV capable, road-mobile ICBM,
and the DF-31AG road-mobile ICBM. The number of warheads on Chinese ICBMs capable of threatening the United States is expected to
grow to well over 100 in the next 5 years.
On 4 July 2017, North Korea performed the inaugural flight test of the Hwasong-14 ICBM, making it North Korea’s first flight-tested ICBMclass system. The Hwasong-14 ICBM was flight tested again on 28 July 2017. Both of these launches flew on a highly lofted trajectory (highapogee but short range). For instance, the Hwasong-14 flight test on 28 July 2017 flew to an
apogee of roughly 3,700 km, but a range of only around 1000 km into the Sea of Japan. Despite
being flight tested at lofted trajectories for testing purposes, the system is capable of ICBM
ranges of 10,000+ km. On 28 November 2017, North Korea introduced another ICBM-classsystem, the Hwasong-15. Like the Hwasong-14, the Hwasong-15 is a road-mobile two-stage
liquid-propellant system. According to North Korea, the Hwasong-15 ICBM reached an altitudeof roughly 4,475 km and a distance of roughly 950 km. Although it demonstrated a lofted
trajectory like the Hwasong-14, the Hwasong-15’s range could reach the continental US.
Tehran’s desire to have a strategic counter to the United States could drive it to field an ICBM. North Korea Hwasong-14 ICBM
Additional progress in Iran’s space program could shorten a pathway to an ICBM, because spacelaunch vehicles use inherently similar technologies. Since 2008, Iran has conducted multiple launches of the two-stage Safir SLV and thelarger Simorgh SLV.
India’s Agni VI ICBM is reportedly in the design phase with a range of 6,000 km.

28

China CSS-10 ICBM Launch Canister on MEL

North Korea Hwasong-13 ICBM

Russia SS-27 ICBM TEL
North Korea Modified Hwasong-14 ICBM

North Korea Hwasong-15 ICBM

Russia Sarmat ICBM

Russia SS-27 ICBM

29
INTERCONTINENTAL BALLISTIC MISSILESCOUNTRY/SYSTEMSNUMBEROF STAGESWARHEADSPER MISSILE

PROPELLANTDEPLOYMENTMODEMAXIMUM
RANGE (km)NUMBER OF
LAUNCHERS*

CSS-3 ICBM

2

1

LiquidTransportable

5,500+

10 to 15

CSS-4 Mod 2 ICBM

2

1

LiquidSilo

12,000+

CSS-4 Mod 3 ICBM

2 + PBV

Multiple

LiquidSilo

12,000+

CSS-10 Mod 1 ICBM

3

1

Solid

Road-Mobile

7,000+

5 to 10

CSS-10 Mod 2 ICBM

3

1

Solid

Road-Mobile

11,000+15+

DF-31AG ICBM

3

UNK

Solid

Road-Mobile

UNK

16+

CSS-20 ICBM

3 + PBV

Multiple

Solid

Road-Mobile

UNK

16+

Taepo Dong 2 ICBM

3

1

LiquidFixedHwasong-13 ICBM

3

1

LiquidRoad-Mobile

12,000Undetermined

Hwasong-14 ICBM

2

Unknown

LiquidRoad-Mobile

10,000+Undetermined

Hwasong-15 ICBM

2

Unknown

LiquidRoad-Mobile

12,000+Undetermined

SS-18 Mod 5 ICBM

2 + PBV

10

LiquidSilo

10,000+

About 50

SS-19 Mod 3 ICBM

2 + PBV

6

LiquidSilo

9,000+

About 502

1

LiquidSilo

10,000+Less than 10

SS-25 ICBM

3 + PBV

1

Solid

Road-Mobile

11,000+

About 50

SS-27 Mod 1 ICBM

3 + PBV

1

Solid

Silo & Road-Mobile

11,000+

About 80

SS-27 Mod 2 ICBM

3 + PBV

Multiple

Solid

Silo & Road-Mobile

11,000+More than 100

SS-28 ICBM***At least 2

Multiple

Solid

Road-Mobile

5,500+In Development

SARMAT

2 + PBV

Multiple

LiquidSilo

10,000+In Development

CHINA

About 20NORTH KOREA
Undetermined**

RUSSIA

SS-19 Mod 4 ICBM/HGV

Note: All ranges are approximate.
*The missile inventory may be larger than the number of launchers; launchers can be reused to fire additional missiles.
** We have observed launches of the TD-2 space launch vehicle from both east (2006 and 2009) and west (2012) coast facilities.
*** The Russian press indicated the missile was initially tested to ICBM range. Russian officials quoted in the press have claimed the missile is“lighter, and consequently has a shorter range” than the SS-27 Mod 2 ICBM on which it is based.

30
SUBMARINE-LAUNCHED (SLBM) & SHIP-LAUNCHED BALLISTIC MISSILES(ShLBM)
Russia maintains a substantial force of nuclear-powered ballistic
missile submarines (SSBNs) with intercontinental-range missiles.
Upgraded SS-N-23s are intended to replace older SS-N-23s on
DELTA IV Class SSBNs. The SS-N-32/BULAVA is a new solid propellant SLBM deployed on the new DOLGORUKIY class SSBNs.
Russian SLBMs are capable of launch from surfaced and submerged SSBNs from a variety of launch locations.
China has deployed the CSS-N-14/JL-2 SLBM on the 12-tube JIN
Class SSBNs. This missile allows Chinese SSBNs to target portions of the United States from operating areas in the Pacific
Ocean. In late November 2018, China tested a new JL-3 SLBM in
the Bohai Sea. According to media sources, the JL-3 has a greater range than the JL-2.
North Korea is developing an SLBM capability, and has flighttested two SLBM variants, possibly designated as the Pukguksong-1 and Pukguksong-3, in 2016 and 2019. According to North
Korean press statements, the Pukguksong-1 will be coldlaunched, solid-fueled, and will carry a nuclear warhead.
India has developed and commissioned a new ballistic missilecapable submarine, the INS ARIHANT. The INS ARIHANT cancarry either 12 SRBM range K-15s or four IRBM range K-4
SLBMs, the later of which is still under development. The
Dhanush, a liquid-fueled, ship-launched ballistic missile(ShLBM), is a naval variant of India’s Prithvi II CRBM.

China CSS-N-14 SLBM

Russia SS-N-18 SLBM

31

India K-15 SLBM

Russia Bulava Launch Canister32

North Korea Pukguksong-1 Launch

India Dhanush ShLBM

Russia SS-N-18 Payload Section

33
SUBMARINE & SHIP-LAUNCHED BALLISTIC MISSILESCOUNTRY/SYSTEMSNUMBER OF
STAGESWARHEADSPER MISSILE

PROPELLANTDEPLOYMENTMODEMAXIMUM
RANGE (km)NUMBER OF
LAUNCHERSCSS-N-14 (JL-2) SLBM

3

1

Solid

JIN Sub

7,000+

48

JL-3

3

Multiple

Solid

Type 096 Sub

10,000+N/A

K-15 SLBM

2

1

Solid

ARIHANT Sub

700

12

K-4 SLBM

2

1

Solid

ARIHANT Sub

3,500

4; Not Yet Deployed

Dhanush ShLBM

1

1

LiquidSukyana-class
Patrol Boat

400

2

Pukguksong-1 SLBM

2

1

Solid

SINPO Sub

1,000+

UNK; Not Yet Deployed

Pukguksong-3 SLBM

2

UNK

Solid

Sub

1,000+

UNK; Not Yet Deployed

SS-N-18 SLBM

2 + PBV

3

LiquidDELTA III Sub

5,500+

16

SS-N-23 Sineva SLBM

3 + PBV

4

LiquidDELTA IV Sub

8,000+

96

SS-N-32 Bulava SLBM

3 + PBV

6Solid

DOLGORUKIY(BOREY) Sub

8,000+

48

CHINA

INDIA

NORTH KOREARUSSIA

Note: All ranges are approximate

North Korea Pukguksong-1 SLBM34
LAND-ATTACK CRUISE MISSILES (LACM)
Cruise missiles are typically categorized by their intended mission: either as aland attack cruise missile (LACM) or as an anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM). Cruise
missiles can further be categorized by launch platform: aircraft, ship, submarine,or ground launcher.
A LACM is an armed unmanned aerial vehicle designed to attack a fixed or
relocatable target. It spends the majority of its mission in level flight, as it follows
a preprogrammed path to the predetermined target. LACMs typically use a small
gas-turbine engine for propulsion.
LACM guidance usually occurs in three phases: launch, midcourse, and terminal.
During the launch phase, a missile is guided using only the inertial navigation
system (INS). During the midcourse phase, the missile’s INS is updated by one ormore of the following systems: a satellite navigation system (such as the US
Global Positioning System (GPS) or the Russian Global Navigation Satellite System(GLONASS)); a terrain contour matching (TERCOM) system; or a radar or opticalscene matching system. The terminal guidance phase begins when a missile
enters the target area and uses either a more accurate scene matching system ora terminal seeker (usually an optical or radar-based sensor). Some advanced
LACMs may have highly accurate guidance systems that can place the missile
within a few feet of the intended target.

China CJ-10 LACM

Russia KH-55SM LACM

Iran Soumar LACM

Russia R-500 LACM

Russia Kh-101 LACM

35
LACMs can be challenging targets for air defense systems. Cruise missiles can fly at low altitudes to stay below a radar’s line of sight.
Depending on a country’s ability to do mission planning, the missile can use terrain features such as mountains or valleys to hide fromradars. Furthermore, LACMs may fly circuitous routes to the target, avoiding radar and air defense installations. A salvo of missiles canbe launched to approach a target simultaneously from different directions, potentially overwhelming air defenses. Some missiles haveincorporated stealth features to make them less visible to radars and infrared detectors. Some developmental systems may incorporatechaff or decoys as an added layer of protection, though concealment will remain a cruise missile’s main defense. The cruise missile
threat to US forces is increasing in terms of the number of countries possessing LACMs, the total number of LACMs, and the number of
LACMs possessing advanced capabilities.
The CJ-10 is the first Chinese long-range cruise missile. It made its public debut during a military parade in 2009 and is currently
deployed with the PLA Rocket Force. China has also developed a similar missile called CJ-20 that is carried on PLA Air Force bombers.
China has also shown three hypersonic test vehicles that could help develop the technology to be able to field a hypersonic cruise
missile in the future.
In February 2019, Iran discussed the Hoveizeh LACM at an arms show. As described by Iran, the Hoveizeh is a follow-on to the Soumar
LACM that Iran displayed in 2015. Iran stated the Hoveizeh has a range of 1300 km. The Soumar and Hoveizeh are both groundlaunched LACMs that appear to be based on the Russian air-launched AS-15. In 2012, Iran announced development of a similar missile
called “Meshkat.” The Soumar/Hoveizeh could be a new name for the Meshkat or a variant of the Meshkat. Iran could develop
alternate launch modes, such as air– or ship-launched options, for the Meshkat/Soumar.
Russia has two operational ground-launched cruise missiles, the 9M728 and the 9M729. In July 2014, the United States declared the
9M729, an intermediate-range ground-launched cruise missile, a violation of the INF Treaty.

36
Beginning in fall 2015, Russia fired LACMs from surface ships, submarines, and aircraft in support of ongoing military operations in Syria.
The Club-K cruise missile “container launcher” weapon system, produced and marketed by a Russian firm, looks like a standard shipping
container. The company claims the system can launch cruise missiles from cargo ships, trains, or commercial trucks.
Russian President Putin first announced the nuclear-powered cruise missile program during his 1 March 2018 address to the Federal
Assembly. The Russian Ministry of Defense announced the weapon would be called Burevestnik. A nuclear-powered cruise missile would
give Russia a unique weapon with intercontinental range capability.

COUNTRY/SYSTEMSLAUNCH MODEWARHEAD TYPE

MAXIMUM RANGE (km)

IOC

YJ-63

Air

Conventional

Undetermined

Operational

CJ-10

GroundConventional

Undetermined

Operational

CJ-20

Air

Conventional

Undetermined

Operational

Air, Ground, & Ship

Conventional

Undetermined

Operational

AS-4

Air

Conventional or Nuclear

300+

Operational

AS-15

Air

Nuclear2,800+

Operational

SS-N-21

Submarine

Nuclear

2,400

Operational

Kh-555Air

Conventional

Undetermined

Operational

R-500/9M728

GroundConventional, Nuclear Possible<500

Operational

9M729

GroundConventional or Nuclear>500 but <5,500

Operational

Kh-101Air

Conventional

Undetermined

Operational

Kh-102

Air

NuclearUndetermined

Operational

3M-14

Ship & Sub

Conventional, Nuclear Possible

2,500

Operational

3M-55

Ground, Ship, & Sub

Nuclear Possible

400+

Operational

GroundNuclearUndetermined

Developmental

CHINA

IRAN
Meshkat/Soumar/Hoveizeh
RUSSIA

Burevestnik—Nuclear-powered Cruise Missile

Note: All ranges are approximate and represent the range of the missile only. The effective system range may be greatly increased by the range of thelaunch platform.

China YJ-63 LACM

37
AIR-LAUNCHED BALLISTIC MISSILES (ALBM)
Russian President Putin announced a new hypersonic missile
called “Kinzhal” in his 1 March 2018 address to the Federal
Assembly. Launched from a MiG-31, President Putin claimed
the Kinzhal would fly at hypersonic speed, maneuver during
the missile’s trajectory, and be able to overcome all existingand prospective missile defense systems. President Putin also
claimed the missile had completed development and began“trial service” on 1 December 2017. Russian press reports havealso claimed that the Tu-22M3 bomber will carry the Kinzhal
after they complete integration on that aircraft.
China is also developing two air-launched ballistic missiles, oneof which may have a nuclear warhead.

Russia Kinzhal ALBM38
SUMMARY
Overall, the threats posed by ballistic missile delivery systems are likely to continue to increase and grow more complex. Adversary ballistic
missile systems are becoming more mobile, survivable, reliable, and accurate while also achieving longer ranges. Hypersonic glide vehicles(HGVs) delivered by ballistic missile boosters are an emerging threat that will pose new challenges to missile defense systems. Prelaunch
survivability is likely to increase as potential adversaries strengthen their denial and deception measures and increasingly base missiles onmobile platforms. Increasing technical and operational countermeasures continue to challenge defensive systems in ballistic missiles.
Russia is likely to retain the largest force of strategic ballistic missiles outside the United States. The development of new ballistic missile
systems is a high priority for Russia. In 2019, Russia deployed the world’s first ICBM-class HGV, designed to allow its strategic missiles topenetrate missile defense systems. Russia claims it will deploy the SS-28 (RS-26 Rubezh) for shorter-range targets, and has stated it willsoon begin flight testing a new heavy liquid-propellant ICBM called the Sarmat to replace the aging SS-18. Russia is also offering the advanced Iskander-E SRBM for export.

Iran Khorramshahr MRBM

Iran Fateh-110 SRBM

North Korea Pukguksong-1 SLBM

China CSS-22 (DF-17) MRBM

39
China is producing technologically-advanced ballistic missiles, has sold ballistic missile technology to other countries, has deployed alarge force of ballistic missiles in the vicinity of Taiwan, and is expanding the reach of its ballistic missiles to attempt to deter foreign
powers from becoming involved in any future regional conflict. China can already target the United States with a relatively small force
of ICBMs, and its ICBM force is growing quantitatively and qualitatively.
North Korea has flight tested two road-mobile ICBMs and two different IRBMs; tested new solid-propellant SRBMs, an SLBM and an
MRBM; and maintains a large SRBM inventory.
Iran has ambitious ballistic missile and space launch development programs, and continues to attempt to increase the lethality of its
ballistic missile force. In retaliation for the death of Qasem Soleimani, Iran launched at least 15 highly accurate SRBMs at U.S. bases in
Iraq on 7 January 2020. Iranian ballistic missile forces continue to train extensively in highly-publicized exercises. These exercises enable
Iranian ballistic missile forces to hone wartime operational skills and evolve new tactics. Iran is fielding increased numbers of theaterballistic missiles, improving its existing inventory, and is developing technical capabilities to produce an ICBM through its ballistic missile
and SLV programs.
The cruise missile threat to US forces is increasing. The majority of LACMs will still be subsonic, but supersonic and hypersonic missile
will be deployed in the future. LACMs will also have increased survivability by minimizing radar signature and/or the use of countermeasures.

NASIC Public Affairs Office4180 Watson Way
Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-5625(937) 522-6600

NASIC
July 2020
Materials copyrighted by others may be included. No claim of copyright is made for any included works of the US Government.
This report was prepared by the National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC) in collaboration with the Defense Intelligence
Ballistic Missile Analysis Committee (DIBMAC).

DEFENSE INTELLIGENCE BALLISTIC MISSILE ANALYSIS COMMITTEE