Chinese navy fires new radar-absorbing YJ-18A anti-ship missile in sea trial: expert
China has tested a new variant of the YJ-18A anti-ship cruise missile bearing a black stealth coating, according to experts who say the advanced finish on the ship-launched missile will improve its penetration capability. During a missile test in an unknown sea area, a missile was fired from a navy ship’s vertical launch system for an extreme-performance test of a new type of anti-ship missile,…
China conducted a sea trial for a new variant of the YJ-18A anti-ship cruise missile, which featured a black stealth coating to enhance its radar-absorbing capabilities, according to experts. During the test, a missile was launched from a navy ship's vertical launch system, showcasing its advanced features and performance. The missile's black coating, which closely matches the sea's color, not only provides radar stealth but also serves as visual camouflage.
Song Zhongping, a military commentator and former PLA instructor, explained that the missile's vector maneuvering allowed it to quickly transition to a low-altitude sea-skimming flight, minimizing its exposure and detection risk. The missile's combination of stealth and high-speed capabilities enables it to penetrate enemy defenses effectively.
The YJ-18A, derived from the Russian 3M-54E submarine-launched anti-ship missile system, has a range of 540km and a cruise speed of 966km/h. The missile's warhead can accelerate to Mach 3 speed during its terminal phase, making it highly effective against large surface vessels.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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