Chinese DF-31 ICBMs spotted in central China

Recent satellite images show that China is setting up launch units for its newest road-mobile Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) in central China. Several launchers of the new DF-31/31A appeared at two sites in the eastern part of the Qinghai province in June 2011. This is part of China’s slow modernization of its small (compared with Russia and the United States) nuclear arsenal. An image taken on June 27, 2011 , shows two DF-31/31A launchers on the launch pads of a small launch unit near Haiyan (36°49’37.12″N, 101° 6’22.97″E). One is positioned in a circular pad with support vehicles surrounding it. The circular pad was added to the facility sometime between 2005 and 2010. The other launcher is on a pad to the north, located next to an x-shaped launch pad and a missile garage. The layout of the Haiyan launch site is similar, yet not identical, to the DF-31 launch unit of the 813 Brigade at Nanyang.

....perhaps twice as many by 2025. But even then, the Chinese force will be small compared with that of Russia and the United States.

We need to keep in mind, China has what is commonly referred to as a "deterrent" force. Russia and the US have what is commonly referred to as a "MAD" force, (Mutally Assured Destruction). I've read estimates between 800-1500 ICBM's, each, vs China's, maybe 50 or so. And double that amount by 2025. Which would still put them at significantly less than either the US or Russia.

I find it ironic, that the American public, no longer fears Russia's capability, but seem to focus on China's. But I personally fear Russia more and feel Russia would more likely use weapons of mass destruction than the Chinese.

It only makes sense, that Russia would likely use her force long before China. China has a growing conventional force. China is more plugged into the global economy and more dependent than Russia for global resources. And China's financial system is slowly integrating into the West. There is no need for China to resort to nuclear force, but only as an absolute last resort.

Russia on the other hand, is a super power based soley on her nuclear arsenel. That is her ace in the hole.

So, once again, I do find it ironic that few seem to fear Russia.

Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.