HTF5980

HTF5980
HTF5980 sketch carrying a DF-41 ICBM.
Type16x16 superheavy strategic truck/transporter erector launcher
Place of originChina
Service history
Used byPLA Rocket Force
Production history
DesignerTaian Special Vehicle Company
ManufacturerTaian Special Vehicle Company
Specifications
Mass130-150 t (with DF-41)
Length~21 metres (69 ft)
Width5m
Height4m
Crew1+5

EngineDeutz turbocharged diesel
517 hp (386 kW)
Payload capacityrated at 80 tons
Suspension16x16 wheeled
Operational
range
800 km (497 mi) loaded
Maximum speed 65 km/h (40 mph)

The Taian HTF5980 is a large transporter erector launcher used exclusively to carry the DF-41 Intercontinental Ballistic Missile. It is the largest known TEL used by the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force and the most powerful in terms of carrying capacity.

Description

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The Taian HTF5980 is a 16x16 TEL that specialises in carrying superheavy ICBMs like the aforementioned DF-41s or sometimes the DF-31AG.[1] It is the first eight-axis self-propelled chassis made in China, equipped with a multi-axis steering system to meet the requirements of high manoeuvrability for a ground vehicle of such size.[2]

Like most TELs made from Taian, it uses an integral welded structure frame, an oil-gas spring independent suspension and a multi-axle group steering and drives in order to achieve a high enough mobility to suit the PLARF.[2]

One key difference of the HTF5980 in comparison to its smaller cousin, the HTF5680A1, is the introduction of a split-cab design. This was in order to accommodate the much larger missile canister of the DF-41 when at rest. [3]

Variants

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The HTF5980 itself comes in two varieties, the HTF5980A and HTF5980B, which are the launch vehicles and transport vehicles respectively.[2]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "China unveils new DF-41 ICBM InterContinental Ballistic Missile at military parade". Army Recognition. Retrieved 14 February 2022.
  2. ^ a b c "DF-41 – Road Mobile". Global Security.org. Retrieved 14 February 2022.
  3. ^ "China's Mobile ICBM Brigades: The DF-31 and DF-41". A Boy and His Blog. Retrieved 14 February 2022.