Kathrine Frich
They are a nightmare for US forces to detect, let alone defend against, especially at sea.
They are a nightmare for US forces to detect, let alone defend against, especially at sea.
China Unveils CSDCS Missile System
Beijing has revealed its latest military marvel: the CSDCS missile system disguised as a shipping container.
First showcased in 2022, the system is sparking alarm in Western defence circles.
Unlike Russia’s Club-K, the Chinese version is reportedly more advanced, easier to operate, and capable of launching a wider variety of deadly missiles.
Impossible to Spot Until It’s Too Late
What makes the CSDCS so dangerous is its stealth. Disguised as civilian cargo, these containerized launchers can be transported undetected on merchant ships or trucks.
In the chaos of conflict, this makes them a nightmare for US forces to detect, let alone defend against, especially at sea.
From Merchant Ships to Missile Platforms
China has been running drills since 2016 using commercial vessels for military exercises.
In October 2024, the PLA used container ships as makeshift launchpads for attack helicopters.
It’s part of a broader strategy to blur the line between civilian and military assets, complicating enemy responses.
Four Missiles Per Box, Dozens of Targets
Each CSDCS container can carry up to four missiles. Among the arsenal: subsonic cruise missiles like the YJ-83 and YJ-62, anti-radiation PL-16s, and most notably, the terrifying supersonic YJ-12 and YJ-18.
These missiles can strike with little warning and devastating speed.
The YJ-12: A Supersonic Ship Killer
Likely in service since 2015, the YJ-12 can reach speeds of Mach 3 and hit targets over 400 km away.
It combines satellite and inertial navigation with radar guidance, delivering a 500 kg warhead that can obliterate even large naval vessels.
Its speed allows mere seconds to react.
The YJ-18: A Cruise Missile with a Nasty Surprise
This hybrid missile travels most of its 500+ km range at subsonic speed, making it hard to detect.
But near its target, it kicks into high gear with a booster that propels it to Mach 3, too fast for most defences to intercept.
With a 300 kg warhead, it’s built to destroy.
Analysts Alarmed: A Game-Changer for Future Wars
Western experts are increasingly concerned that if deployed widely, CSDCS could overwhelm naval forces in a surprise attack.
Its mobility, concealment, and deadly payload give it a massive strategic edge, one that could tilt the balance in a Pacific conflict.