The YJ-21 (Chinese: 鹰击-21; pinyin: Yīngjī-èryāo; lit. 'eagle strike 21') or 2PZD-21 is a Chinese anti-ship ballistic missile.[1][2] The missile system is reportedly capable of engaging land targets and surface warships with a hypersonic, maneuverable, conventional warhead.[3] The missile is possibly based on an export-oriented ballistic missile produced by China, named CM-401, but with more advanced features and capabilities.[4] Publications of the PLA Navy suggested the YJ-21 is derived from DF-21D anti-ship ballistic missiles. The missile is claimed with a flight speed of Mach 6, and a terminal speed of Mach 10.[5] The missile was revealed by Chinese Navy ahead of its 73rd anniversary, launching from a universal vertical launch system of the Type 055 destroyer.[1][6] An export version called YJ-21E was showcased in Airshow China 2022.[7] In 2024, the missile was observed launching from a H-6K bomber.[8]
| YJ-21 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Hypersonic anti-ship ballistic missile |
| Place of origin | China |
| Service history | |
| In service | 2022–present |
| Used by | People's Liberation Army Navy |
| Specifications | |
| Length | approx. 8.3 metres (27 ft) |
| Warhead | Conventional |
Operational range | approx. 1,500 kilometres (930 mi) |
| Maximum speed | Mach 6 – Mach 10 (7,400–12,300 km/h) |
Launch platform | Type 055 destroyer air platforms |
