History

• Mobile missile systems were used throughout the Cold War by both the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. Road-based mobile missile systems used by the U.S. included the Pershing I and II systems and the Lance weapons system.
  
  

Function

• Mobile missile systems are made up of missiles carried on erector launchers that can move along existing roads to avoid detection from neighboring countries. Mobile missiles are often used as they are difficult to locate and keep under surveillance.
  
  

Example

• A mobile missile system developed by China, known as the DF-31 system, uses transporters for the missiles that are thought to be configured to Chinese road standards for trailers and trucks, according to Princeton University. This allows China's mobile missile system to be moved along the nation's roads without the need to construct special roads for specific machinery.