On December 28, 2024, the Liberty Times reported that Taiwan had finalized the development of its hypersonic cruise missile, the Qingtian, with a range exceeding 2,000 kilometers. The missile builds on the Yunfeng and Yungeng II programs, originally designed for ranges between 1,200 and 2,000 kilometers. The Qingtian introduces advancements in propulsion, navigation, and guidance technologies, enhancing its range, speed, and operational flexibility. Mass production of the Qingtian began in late 2024, with initial units already delivered to Taiwan’s Air Force missile brigades.
According to information available, the Qingtian hypersonic missile is based on the earlier Yunfeng and Yungeng II programs, originally designed for ranges between 1,200 and 2,000 kilometers, allowing Taiwan to target strategic locations deep within mainland China
The National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) led the Qingtian’s development. The missile incorporates ramjet propulsion and materials capable of withstanding high temperatures during hypersonic flight, supported by the Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense’s “National Defense Advanced Technology Research Plan.” Utilizing composite ceramic materials, the missile can endure the extreme conditions associated with speeds exceeding Mach 6. These attributes enable it to evade air defense systems and extend its operational applications.
The Qingtian will be deployed on both fixed-launch systems and mobile platforms, enhancing survivability against potential preemptive strikes. The Czech-made Tatra Force 12X12 trucks, were chosen for their off-road capabilities, adaptability to mountainous terrain, and maneuverability. If Czech procurement encounters difficulties, the American Oshkosh M983 serves as an alternative platform. The adoption of mobile launch platforms represents a shift from previous trailer-mounted systems, aligning with modern military trends favoring self-contained launchers.