China has successfully conducted test missile interception with HQ-16A surface-to-air missile system

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Defence & Security News - China

 
 
Thursday, July 24, 2014 10:43 AM
 
China has successfully conducted test missile interception with HQ-16A surface-to-air missile system.
China has announced the success of a missile interception test conducted from land with HQ-16A ground-to-air defense missile system. The test, conducted within its territory late on Wednesday, "achieved the preset goal", according to a statement posted on the website of the Ministry of National Defense. Military authorities provided no other information about the operation.
     

HQ-16 Chinese-made surface-to-air defense missile system
     

China has already successfully completed two mid-course land-based missile interception tests, in 2010 and 2013, both of which "attained preset objectives."

By developing the ability to intercept incoming warheads such as ballistic missiles, it is hoped that the tests can help strengthen China's air defense.

It is reported that such interception technology requires sophistication in information processing, reconnaissance, early warning, transportation of weaponry, guidance and precision.

Analysts say the strategic importance of mid-course land-based missile interception could be compared to that of atomic and hydrogen bombs and man-made satellites.

Missiles can be intercepted in three stages of their trajectory: boost phase, mid-course phase or terminal phase.

     

HQ-16A during firing test.
     
The HQ16A or LY-80 is a Chinese-made ground-to-air defence missile system which was introduce in the Chinese armed forces in September 2011.

The HQ16A (LY-80) launcher missile system is carried by an 8x8 truck that contains a command and control station behind the cab, and behind those are six firing missile containers in two rows of three.

The HQ16A (LY-80) missile can intercept an aerial flying target from an 15 m to 18 km of altitude, while its maximum interception range for combat aircraft is 40km, and between 3.5 km and 12 km for cruise missiles flying at an altitude of 50 meters at a speed of 300 meters/second.
     

Search radar vehicle from HQ-16A (LY-80) air defence missile system battery unit