Dagger Analog: China was armed with a KD-21 aerobalist missile (photo)

To spread: KD-21 ballistic missile, first presented at Airshow China at 2022, is now perhaps in the China Air Force. The images have recently appeared that showed that the H-6K bombers of the Air Force NVAK were armed with this rocket, which indicates its prompt deployment. The War Zone writes that KD-21 is probably designed on the basis of the CM-401 anti-ship ballistic missile and has characteristics similar to the Russian "dagger".

It is able to attack both terrestrial and marine targets, reaching the final speed from 4 to 6 strokes. Compared to ground ballistic missiles, KD-21, launched with H-6K, receives an additional stock of range and maneuverability. Moreover, the bomber, capable of overcoming up to 3700 miles, and subject to refueling in the air potentially to reach even the coast of Alaska. Given that the rocket can be equipped, in particular, a nuclear warhead, it is a formidable weapon system.

The rocket runs from the aircraft, then picks up a height, and then goes into the phase reduction on a steep ballistic trajectory. This scheme makes it difficult to intercept, especially if the rocket is equipped with a maneuvering system on a terminal flight area. It is suggested that the KD-21 can use the "Dolfing" trajectory, in which the warhead after the initial lift performs several controlled "jumps" in the atmosphere before final pointing on the target.

This can significantly increase the range of its flight, possibly up to 1000 kilometers. Experts have paid attention to the ballistic trajectory of the rocket at supersonic speed (4-6 strokes), which makes KD-21 especially dangerous for modern air defense systems. However, given the experience of hostilities in Ukraine, where the Russian rocket "dagger" has repeatedly stuck modern Western air defense systems, the issue of KD-21 efficiency against advanced systems remains open.

However, in combination with massive blows, other means of attack, it can be a serious threat. Analysts emphasize that the deployment of KD-21 corresponds to China Strategy for restriction of access and zonal ban (A2/AD system), creating a threat to aircraft carrier shock groups and enemy bases. When launching with H-6K, it can be used for attacks on objects along the first chain of islands and further in the Pacific.