Beijing (TDI): The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force is set to unveil the HQ-19 surface-to-air missile system at Airshow China 2024, marking the first public display of this advanced defense technology.
The event, scheduled from November 12 to 17 in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, will showcase China’s latest advances in missile defense.
The HQ-19 surface-to-air missile system represents a new-generation defense asset with extensive combat-protection coverage and sophisticated countermeasures designed to intercept regional ballistic missile threats, according to Chinese media reports.
With a focus on enhanced mobility and robust defense penetration, the HQ-19 launch vehicle operates on an 8×8 wheeled chassis and is equipped with six interceptor missiles contained in integrated storage-transport-launch tubes, which employ a cold-launch mechanism for swift deployment.
A distinct feature of the HQ-19 is its adaptive launch pad that enables near-vertical launch angles, a design that reflects significant technological advancement in missile deployment.
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The system’s capacity to intercept a range of ballistic missiles, including hypersonic glide vehicles, showcases its advanced countermeasure capabilities.
Chinese military experts said that the HQ-19’s anti-ballistic focus distinguishes it from other Chinese surface-to-air missile systems, such as the HQ-9 and HQ-22, which primarily address anti-aircraft threats with limited anti-ballistic reach.
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Experts describe the HQ-19 as a critical enhancement to the PLA’s missile interception capabilities, placing it on par with other high-profile defense assets such as the J-20 stealth fighter.
This latest addition underscores China’s commitment to fortifying its air defense and missile interception framework.
