China is rapidly expanding its ballistic missile arsenal, including the DF-41 and DF-26 systems, to increase its strategic reach across the Indo-Pacific.

This military expansion alters the security calculus for regional partners. Analysts said the growth in these capabilities will increase China's ability to strike Australian territory over the next decade [1].

During a recent national military parade, the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force showcased dozens of new missile types [2]. The display highlighted China's modernization efforts to strengthen regional deterrence and project power further from its shores.

Data indicates that missile production saw its biggest increase in 2025 [3]. This represents the largest surge in production since Xi Jinping became president in 2013 [3]. The acceleration in manufacturing suggests a shift toward mass-scaling strategic weaponry rather than focusing solely on prototype development.

The expansion includes a variety of systems designed for different ranges, and payloads. By integrating these new assets, China aims to establish a more robust deterrent framework that can challenge existing security architectures in the region [1, 2].

Security experts are now assessing the implications for Australia's defense posture as these capabilities mature. The ability to deliver high-precision strikes over long distances reduces the reaction time for regional defenders — a critical factor in modern electronic and missile warfare [1].

“China's ability to strike Australia is expected to grow markedly over the next decade.”

The surge in Chinese missile production and the diversification of its arsenal indicate a transition from theoretical deterrence to operational readiness. By scaling the production of long-range systems like the DF-41 and DF-26, China is effectively extending its 'anti-access/area denial' (A2/AD) bubble. For Australia, this necessitates a strategic review of missile defense systems and regional alliances to counter a heightened risk of long-range precision strikes.