The DF-26 is a ballistic missile developed by China’s People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF). It is a mobile, intermediate-range missile system that can carry conventional or nuclear warheads. The DF-26 is often referred to as a “carrier killer” due to its ability to target aircraft carriers and other large ships.The missile has an estimated range of approximately 3,000-4,000 kilometers (1,800-2,500 miles), which allows it to reach various targets in the Asia-Pacific region. It is considered a dual-capable weapon, meaning it can be armed with both conventional and nuclear warheads, depending on the mission requirements.The DF-26 is equipped with advanced guidance systems, including inertial navigation, satellite navigation, and possibly maneuvering re-entry vehicles (MaRV). This enables it to have a high level of accuracy, allowing it to strike targets with precision.China officially unveiled the DF-26 in a military parade in 2015, and it has since become a significant component of China’s strategic capabilities. It is believed to enhance China’s anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) capabilities by providing a means to target naval assets, military bases, and other critical infrastructure within its operational range.The deployment of the DF-26 has raised concerns among regional and global powers, as it increases China’s ability to project power and potentially disrupt the strategic balance in the Asia-Pacific region. Its anti-ship capabilities, combined with China’s growing naval presence, have drawn attention to the evolving dynamics in the region.