The DF-26, China's new intermediate-range ballistic missile, has officially entered service, a defense ministry spokesman said on Thursday. 

The missile has finished its trials and combat testing, and has officially entered service in the Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army, Senior Colonel Wu Qian said.

The missile is completely designed by China, and equipped with new and advanced technologies, Wu said. It is capable of rapid nuclear retaliation missions, as well as mid- to long-range precision strikes using conventional warheads.