ship missile; new black coating sparks buzz

China tests black-coated YJ-18A missile(X@/dafengcao) China has tested a new variant of the YJ-18A anti-ship cruise missile featuring a black stealth coating, according to experts, who said the specialised finish could enhance the missile’s ability to evade detection and penetrate defences. Most of China’s shipborne missiles currently in active service are painted in lighter shades, such as grey or white. During a missile test in an undisclosed sea area, a naval vessel launched a new anti-ship missile from its vertical launch system as part of what was described as an extreme-performance test, according to footage released by state broadcaster CCTV…