Archive · 17 Sep 2025
China's Advanced Weapons Challenge US Military in Indo-Pacific
China has built some new, powerful weapons that could change how the US military works in the Pacific.
These weapons include long-range missiles like the DF-26D that can hit Guam, and the DF-5C that can reach the US mainland.
They also have fast missiles called YJ-17 and YJ-19 that can sink ships.
China also has a stealth drone called the GJ-11, and a laser weapon called the LY-1 that can shoot down drones.
These new weapons could make it harder for the US to defend its interests in places like Taiwan.
China has developed advanced weapons, including missiles and drones, to counter the US military in the Indo-Pacific.
The DF-26D missile, known as the "Guam Killer," can target US assets and evade defenses.
The DF-5C intercontinental ballistic missile directly targets the American homeland.
Hypersonic anti-ship missiles YJ-17 and YJ-19 pose a threat to US Navy carrier groups.
The LY-1 laser system can disable drones and sensors.
- Who
- China and the US military
- What
- China's development and deployment of advanced weapons systems.
- When
- Deployment since 2016, with a 2025 military parade.
- Where
- Indo-Pacific region, including Taiwan and South China Sea.
- Why
- To counter US dominance and deter or defeat US forces.
- DF-26D Range
- 3,000-4,000 kilometers
- DF-5C ICBM Range
- Over 12,000 kilometers
- YJ-17/19 Speed
- Mach 5+
- LY-1 Range
- Up to 10 kilometers
- China's Defense Budget
- $230 billion