Story perspectives

China Unveils CJ-1000 Hypersonic Missile, Outpacing U.S.

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

China introduced the CJ-1000 hypersonic missile, surpassing the United States in scramjet propulsion.
The CJ-1000 was shown at the Beijing parade in September and is the first land-based scramjet-powered hypersonic missile.
It is joined by the ship-launched YJ-19, among the few operational scramjet systems with Russia's 3M22 Zircon.
An analysis notes scramjet engines are technologically superior but harder to develop than glider vehicles.
The CJ-1000’s lower cruise altitude makes it harder for enemy radar to detect.

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Story summary

China introduced the CJ-1000 hypersonic missile, surpassing the United States in scramjet propulsion.
The CJ-1000 was shown at the Beijing parade in September and is the first land-based scramjet-powered hypersonic missile.
It is joined by the ship-launched YJ-19, among the few operational scramjet systems with Russia's 3M22 Zircon.
An analysis notes scramjet engines are technologically superior but harder to develop than glider vehicles.
The CJ-1000’s lower cruise altitude makes it harder for enemy radar to detect.