EDEX 2023: China displays CM-501X Loitering Missile System.

The editorial team of Army Recognition, an official partner of EDEX (Egypt Defence Expo) 2023, had the opportunity to discover the CM-501X Loitering Attack Missile System, developed by the China National Precision Machinery Import & Export Corporation. This system integrates functions of loitering (hovering flight) and reconnaissance, continuous deterrence, instant strike, cooperative attack, and damage assessment.
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Chinese CM-501X Loitering Attack Missile System. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The CM-501X is designed for precision strikes on specific targets within the tactical depth of the army. It is used for short-range target reconnaissance and preliminary strikes on critical targets at the beginning of combat. During combat, it serves for cooperative blockade and control of the area, surveillance, and striking important targets. After a massive fire strike, it is used for damage assessment and additional strikes on missed targets.

Key features of the CM-501X include a general container-type launch and high-precision three-dimensional reconnaissance. It possesses a long-range precision strike capability and flexible loitering attack capacity. The technical specifications include various targets such as command vehicles and armored vehicles, a control radius of about 70 km, a loitering speed of Ma 0.3 to Ma 0.4, a maximum flight time of 50 minutes, a missile length of less than 3,2 m, and a launch weight of about 170 kg. The navigation system combines INS and satellite, with modular seekers such as TV, infrared, passive radar, and a combination of infrared imaging/millimeter-wave. The propulsion system is a turbojet engine with a solid rocket motor booster. The warhead weight is 20 kg, and the missile can be loaded onto vehicles.

The presentation of the CM-501X at EDEX 2023 highlights the evolution of precision strike technologies developed by China and their potential impact on future combat tactics.