China parade may flaunt DF-41: How Beijing's nuclear-capable ballistic missile compares with India's BrahMos

the first BrahMos missile was tested on June 12, 2001

China is preparing to showcase its combat drones and nuclear-capable ballistic missiles, including DF-41, during its September 3 parade in Beijing, according to reports.

China has reportedly said the parade will reveal the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) “new generation” of domestically produced active-duty weaponry. It will be the largest display of advancements in China’s military hardware since the 2019 National Day parade.

Although Chinese authorities have placed covers over missiles in the staging area, several DF-41 solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missiles are likely in the satellite images that have surfaced on social media, according to the specialist defense agency Janes.

Meanwhile, the BrahMos missile, jointly developed by India’s DRDO and Russia is considered to be one of the most effective cruise missiles in the world due to its supersonic speed, high accuracy, versatility (multi-platform launch capability). It reportedly showcased its might during India’s Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. However, it is being claimed that China’s DF-41 intercontinental ballistic missile stands unmatched.

What is the key difference?

DF-41 is a ballistic missile, while BrahMos is a cruise missile. While the DF-41 is a strategic nuclear weapon for intercontinental reach, the BrahMos is a tactical weapon for precision warfare over shorter to medium distances.

Details of both DF-41 and BrahMos

The development of DF-41 began in 1986 and it entered service in 2017. It was publicly displayed for the first time in 2019. The missile was tested in the Southern Ocean in September 2024. Weighing approximately 80,000 kg and measuring 22 metres in length, the DF-41 can be launched from silos, roads, and rails. This can empower China to target much of the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa strategically.

Meanwhile, the first BrahMos missile was tested on June 12, 2001. It can be launched from land, sea, and air platforms. The BrahMos Extended Range, which seeks to hit the enemy at a range of up to 1,500 kilometres, and the BrahMos-II Hypersonic which aims to cruise at Mach 8 speeds, and the BrahMos-NG (NextGen) which seeks to be a reduced weight version of the weapon capable of being fired from land, air and under the sea.

India delivered the second tranche of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines in April 2025. India’s export of BrahMos also reflects its growing role as a defence partner in Southeast Asia. Countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia have shown interest in acquiring the missile system, although no deals have been finalized. The region’s increasing focus on coastal defense comes amid rising concerns over China's assertiveness in the South China Sea.

How does DF-41 help China?

According to News18, DF-41 competes with America’s Minuteman and Russia’s Sarmat missiles. Experts told News18 that this missile not only enhances China’s defence capabilities but also impacts international security and nuclear balance. China plans to manufacture 50 to 100 units of DF-41.

How does BrahMos help India?

In January 2024, Indonesia’s defence ministry expressed formal interest in acquiring the BrahMos missile system, potentially valued at $450 million. A similar deal is in the works with Vietnam. BrahMos export also serves India's strategic interest. China's territorial claims in the South China Sea have put it in conflict with many countries. BrahMos export to these countries may help India reach China's own backyard.