Recently, CCTV Military aired live footage of the digitized and flexible production line for the PL-15E air-to-air missile.
According to the report, the PL-15E air-to-air missile is characterized by its all-weather capability, beyond-visual-range launch, multi-target engagement, and fire-and-forget functionality. It can accurately strike targets such as manned aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles. With a maximum range exceeding 145 kilometers, it can be equipped on fighter jets like the J-10C and JF-17, making it a powerful long-range, beyond-visual-range air combat weapon.
The CCTV military program Weaponry Insights previously explained that the PL-15 missile uses a dual-pulse rocket motor. Compared to traditional propulsion methods, this approach provides thrust in both the initial and terminal phases of flight, creating strong “no-escape zones” at both short and long ranges, enhancing both the missile’s reach and strike accuracy.
Military expert Song Zhongping emphasized that in addition to its range and speed advantages, the PL-15E also excels in software—an essential aspect for any beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile. “Its advanced radar terminal guidance allows it to lock onto and hit even targets with strong jamming capabilities,” he noted.
