China is preparing to showcase its hypersonic missiles during a major military parade in Beijing on September 3. The event commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. It also provides China a platform to highlight its most advanced weaponry, including fighter jets, tanks, and anti-drone systems. Notably, experts expect the parade to feature the DF-ZF, a cutting-edge hypersonic missile.
Hypersonic missiles can travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound. This speed, combined with maneuverability, makes them extremely difficult to detect and intercept. Military analysts believe China intends to use these missiles in a future invasion of Taiwan. The goal would be to swiftly destroy Taiwan’s critical infrastructure and air-defense capabilities before any counterattack can be organized.
To counteract this emerging threat, Taiwan has significantly upgraded its missile defense systems. One key system is the Strong Bow IIA, designed to intercept incoming missiles at distances of up to 100 kilometers. Taiwan has also developed the Strong Bow IIB, a surface-to-surface ballistic missile capable of striking targets as far as 1,000 kilometers away. These advancements provide Taiwan with increased strategic reach and a stronger defensive posture.
Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) plays a vital role in enhancing the island’s military capabilities. NCSIST has already mass-produced the Ching Tien supersonic cruise missile. This missile has a range between 1,200 and 2,000 kilometers, allowing Taiwan to target potential threats well beyond its borders. Currently, NCSIST is upgrading the Ching Tien to a hypersonic cruise missile. Once completed, this upgraded missile will boast a range exceeding 2,000 kilometers.
The display of hypersonic missiles at China’s military parade signals a new phase of technological competition between the two sides. It also underscores the growing importance of missile technology in modern warfare. Taiwan’s efforts to develop advanced missile systems and interceptors highlight its determination to defend itself against these sophisticated threats.
Given the rapid evolution of hypersonic missiles, regional security experts remain vigilant. The coming years will likely see further advancements in missile defense and offensive capabilities. Ultimately, the balance of power in East Asia will depend heavily on how well Taiwan and China manage these cutting-edge technologies.
