Lesson plan
DF-5
The Dongfeng 5 ( ) or DF-5 is a Chinese second-generation two stage, silo-launched, liquid-propelled intercontinental ballistic missile. The most recent variant of the missile, the DF-5C, was first displayed at the 2025 China Victory Day Parade and is estimated to have a range of approximately with the ability to carry up to 10 multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs). The DF-5 had its first flight in 1971 and was in operational service 10 years later. One of the limitations of the missile is that it takes between 30 and 60 minutes to load with liquid fuel (UDMH) and NTO oxidizer. The missile was also used as the basis for the Long March 2 family of launch vehicles. , DF-5s in service are estimated at six DF-5A missiles assigned six warheads, and twelve DF-5B missiles assigned 60 warheads in MIRV configuration. It is unknown if the DF-5C is deployed. The DF-5B warhead, at 4.5 megatons, is one of the largest nuclear weapons still in service worldwide.
Article summary
The Dongfeng 5 ( ) or DF-5 is a Chinese second-generation two stage, silo-launched, liquid-propelled intercontinental ballistic missile. The most recent variant of the missile, the DF-5C, was first displayed at the 2025 China Victory Day Parade and is estimated to have a range of approximately with the ability to carry up to 10 multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs). The DF-5 had its first flight in 1971 and was in operational service 10 years later. One of the limitations of the missile is that it takes between 30 and 60 minutes to load with liquid fuel (UDMH) and NTO oxidizer. The missile was also used as the basis for the Long March 2 family of launch vehicles. , DF-5s in service are estimated at six DF-5A missiles assigned six warheads, and twelve DF-5B missiles assigned 60 warheads in MIRV configuration. It is unknown if the DF-5C is deployed. The DF-5B warhead, at 4.5 megatons, is one of the largest nuclear weapons still in service worldwide.
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Discussion questions
- Summarise the article in your own words. Which single claim would you verify first, and why?
- Which claim in this article is most likely to be revised as the sources update? How would you check its current status?
- If two sources disagreed about one of these facts, what would you need in order to trust one over the other?
Bibliography
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Key claims and bibliography are generated from the same tracked claims and sources as the article page.