China Masks ICBM Launchers as Civilian Cranes
China Disguises ICBM Launchers as Civilian Cranes
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* Camouflage Technique: China’s People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force is disguising its mobile intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launchers as civilian cranes manufactured by Zoomlion.
* Purpose of disguise: This is done to conceal the military nature of the systems during transport and parking,making visual identification more arduous.
* How it Works: The launchers are externally presented as large mobile cranes, with similar body shapes, covers, and markings to heavy construction equipment. Removable yellow coverings are used to further disguise vehicles that are normally green.
* Systems Involved: these are mobile transporter-erector-launchers (TELs) used for the Dongfeng series of ballistic missiles, including China’s ICBMs.
* Strategic Importance: Mobile ICBM launchers are crucial to China’s nuclear deterrent, allowing for dispersal and concealment. This disguise tactic further complicates detection by surveillance.
* Deception, Not Conversion: The disguise relies on visual deception - the military components remain hidden beneath crane-like housings and tarpaulins, maintaining launch capability.
Essentially, China is using a clever form of camouflage to make its ICBM launchers blend into civilian environments, increasing their survivability and complicating detection efforts.