Xinhua reported that the DF-21 is comparable to the U.S. Pershing II intermediate-range missile that used a two-stage rocket and aerodynamic reentry vehicle.
The DF-21 is the basis for several types of missiles, including the anti-ship variant known as the DF-21D. Another version is believed to be part of China's anti-satellite arsenal.
The DF-21C is a land-attack maneuvering missile with a range of about 1,000 miles.
It is also capable of firing a maneuvering warhead.