China Test-Launches New DF-26D Hypersonic ‘Guam Killer’ Missile.

China has test-launched its new DF-26D missile, a variant believed to carry a hypersonic or maneuvering warhead. Officially unveiled at Beijing’s September 3, 2025 parade, the system extends China’s strike reach deeper into the Pacific, placing Guam and U.S. carrier groups at greater risk.
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Image released on Chinese social networks in September 2025 reportedly shows the test launch of the new DF-26D intermediate-range missile, a variant believed to carry a hypersonic glide warhead and intended to target U.S. bases and carrier strike groups in the Pacific (Picture source: China Social Network)

The DF-26 family, nicknamed the “Guam Killer,” is one of the core assets of the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF). The baseline DF-26, introduced in the mid-2010s, is an intermediate-range ballistic missile with a range of about 4,000 kilometers. It is dual-capable, carrying either nuclear or conventional payloads, and uses inertial navigation with satellite updates to engage both fixed land targets and, with limited capability, large naval vessels.

The DF-26D, first observed during parade rehearsals in August 2025, represents a major evolution of this system. Social media videos in late September showed a launch consistent with the DF-26 series but with an unusual plume and trajectory, suggesting modifications. Independent analysts linked this footage to the DF-26D, and the missile was later confirmed by state media during the September 3 parade.

Open-source reports suggest the DF-26D may extend its range to 5,000 kilometers or more, compared with the DF-26B’s 4,000 km. Such a range would put Guam’s Andersen Air Force Base and U.S. naval formations further into the Pacific at risk. Chinese sources describe the missile as carrying a hypersonic glide vehicle, capable of maneuvering at extreme speeds and complicating interception by U.S. missile defense systems.

Like its predecessor, the DF-26D appears to remain dual-capable, allowing both nuclear and conventional strike roles. However, improvements in guidance systems, active terminal seekers, and electronic countermeasures suggest a stronger anti-ship role. This would allow the missile to threaten U.S. aircraft carrier strike groups, supporting Beijing’s anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) strategy in the Western Pacific.

Although operational readiness has not yet been confirmed, the combination of test-launch evidence, open-source imagery, and parade confirmation strongly suggests that the DF-26D is entering early deployment. With its extended range, advanced guidance, and suspected hypersonic warhead, the DF-26D represents a next-generation upgrade to the “Guam Killer” and a significant step in China’s missile modernization.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.