The 2024 Zhuhai Air Show, held from November 12 to 17, features China’s debut exhibition of the “Hongqi-19” (HQ-19) surface-to-air missile weapon system, alongside a range of new equipment, including advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with integrated surveillance and strike capabilities. This is the first public appearance of the HQ-19, which is considered China’s extended-range version of the THAAD-ER (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense – Extended Range) anti-ballistic missile defense platform. This debut holds special significance for China’s defense technology showcase.
The HQ-19 surface-to-air missile system is primarily used for regional interception of ballistic missile targets. It offers a wide operational protection area and strong anti-penetration capabilities. Experts have noted that the HQ-19 has reached an advanced international level.
According to Chinese media reports, the HQ-19 missile launcher is based on an 8×8 high-mobility wheeled chassis, with each vehicle equipped with six interceptor missiles housed in cylindrical “storage-launch” integrated canisters, utilizing a “cold launch” method. The HQ-19 does not employ a traditional vertical launch system but instead utilizes a high-angle, near-vertical launch technique from an adaptive base at the rear of each launch canister.
Experts highlight that the high-angle launch technique reflects advanced technical capabilities. As a new-generation surface-to-air missile system, the HQ-19 features robust anti-penetration capabilities, capable of intercepting traditional ballistic missiles as well as defending against hypersonic missiles maneuvering in the atmosphere with wide-speed interception and broad interception range. These characteristics confirm that the HQ-19 has achieved an internationally advanced standard.
Although specific performance parameters, such as range and intercept altitude, have not yet been disclosed by officials, experts suggest that based on its design and comparison with the extended-range THAAD, the HQ-19 likely has an interception range that covers medium- to long-range ballistic missiles. The deployment of the HQ-19 will undoubtedly influence the regional military balance, drawing close attention from neighboring countries. As China continues to modernize its military, the development of anti-ballistic missile defense systems will become a critical component of its defense strategy.
