CJ-1000 hypersonic missile
Why in news?
China recently highlighted its CJ-1000 hypersonic missile in media coverage around February 2026, intensifying discussions on the global hypersonic arms race.
Key Features
- Hypersonic Speed: Sustained flight at speeds exceeding Mach 5.
- Scramjet Propulsion: Enables maneuverable, long-range hypersonic flight within the atmosphere.
- Targets: Designed to strike system-node targets on land, sea, and even in the air (including aircraft).
- Mobility: Road-mobile launch capability, enhancing survivability.
Strategic Significance
- First of its kind: The CJ-1000 is the world’s first operational land-based scramjet-powered hypersonic missile.
- Air Defense Challenge: Its speed and maneuverability make it extremely difficult for existing air defense systems to intercept.
India is accelerating hypersonic programs like the HSTDV and BrahMos-II, alongside recent deals such as Hammer missiles with France in February 2026, while boosting indigenous DRDO efforts in scramjet tech.
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