Story perspectives

China Launches YJ-20 Hypersonic Missile from Type 052D Destroyer

7/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

The People’s Liberation Army Navy fired a YJ-20 hypersonic anti-ship missile from a Type 052D destroyer, the first such launch on the class.
CCTV and the Global Times released July 29 footage showing a “cold launch” before the missile’s motor ignited.
Analysts say equipping Type 052D destroyers with the YJ-20—capable of exceeding Mach 5, possibly Mach 9, and over 620 miles—broadens China’s strike capability beyond its ten Type 055 “super-destroyers” and strengthens its western Pacific posture.

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Story summary

The People’s Liberation Army Navy fired a YJ-20 hypersonic anti-ship missile from a Type 052D destroyer, the first such launch on the class.
CCTV and the Global Times released July 29 footage showing a “cold launch” before the missile’s motor ignited.
Analysts say equipping Type 052D destroyers with the YJ-20—capable of exceeding Mach 5, possibly Mach 9, and over 620 miles—broadens China’s strike capability beyond its ten Type 055 “super-destroyers” and strengthens its western Pacific posture.