Concerns have risen over China’s deployment of 200+ conventional missile launchers opposite India, including hypersonic systems. This topic is important for aspirants preparing for GS3 Security and defence strategy through IAS coaching in Hyderabad.
China’s Missile Arsenal
• Missile Bases: Located at Korla and Kunming, capable of firing DF 15B, DF 16, DF 21C, and DF 26.
• Hypersonic Systems: DF 100 and CJ 1000 can strike deep targets without warning.
• Strategic Impact: Reduces India’s Himalayan depth advantage; DF 26 dual-role missile raises escalation risks.
India’s Current Missile Limitations
• Incomplete Missile Integration: Agni, BrahMos, Nirbhay, and LR LACM not fully integrated into a unified operational framework.
• Targeting Deficiency: Lack of robust real-time targeting infrastructure; limited missile stockpiles compared to China.
• Rocket Force Gap: Dedicated rocket force still conceptual, with no unified command under the CDS.
• Hypersonic Technology Lag: India’s hypersonic programme is in early stages, while China fields DF 100 systems.
Strategic Role
• PLA’s Western Theatre Command: India must hold Tibet and Xinjiang at risk to deter missile coercion.
• Mutual Vulnerability: India must inflict comparable damage even with fewer missiles.
• Data Point: China deployed 200+ conventional missile launchers opposite India.
Operational Role
• Border Infrastructure: Capability to degrade PLA’s road/rail links, airbases, and logistics hubs.
• Reciprocal Risk: MRBM/IRBM needed to hold Korla and Kunming bases at risk.
• Data Point: DF 26 missiles can strike 3,000–4,000 km, threatening India’s hinterland.
Tactical Role
• Battlefield Targets: Strike PLA camps, gun positions, and ammunition dumps.
• Unified Command: Requires single authority under CDS for efficiency.
• Data Point: Agni, BrahMos, Nirbhay still under integration; stockpile is finite.
Reforms Required
• Doctrinal Shift: Adopt counter-value strikes with unified national target lists.
• Structural Reform: Place rocket force under CDS; expand MRBM/IRBM inventory.
• Technological Push: Private sector participation to address propulsion, semiconductors, and material gaps.
• Hypersonic Development: Fast-track indigenous hypersonic systems to match China’s DF 100.
• Data Point: India spends 0.65% of GDP on R&D, far below China (2.4%) and Israel (5.4%).
Conclusion
India must urgently build a credible rocket force and diversify missile capabilities to ensure mutual vulnerability with China, preventing coercion and safeguarding national security.
