The HQ-19 is a long-range surface-to-air defense missile system developed by the People's Republic of China. Designed as a high-altitude interceptor, it is intended to counter medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs), hypersonic glide vehicles, and satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO). With both anti-ballistic missile (ABM) and anti-satellite (ASAT) roles, the HQ-19 enhances China's integrated missile defense and space control capabilities.
Country users: China, Pakistan
Technical Data
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Launcher Unit
The HQ-19 uses a mobile launcher vehicle based on the TAS5380 8×8 military truck chassis. Each launcher is fitted with six cylindrical launch tubes mounted vertically at the rear of the truck. The system uses a cold-launch method, where the missile is initially ejected from the launch tube using gas pressure before the main rocket motor ignites. This method improves safety and operational flexibility, allowing for quicker setup and reduced stress on the launch platform. The launcher is also equipped with hydraulic stabilizers and onboard power units, facilitating rapid deployment and autonomous operation.
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Missile
The missile of HQ-19 itself is a two-stage solid-fuel interceptor that utilizes a dual-pulse rocket motor to provide thrust during different flight phases. Constructed from lightweight carbon fiber materials, it is engineered to endure extreme G-forces, tolerating up to 60G during maneuvering. The missile is approximately 7 meters in length and features a diameter of around 0.5 meters. It carries a kinetic kill vehicle (KKV) as its warhead, designed to neutralize targets by direct impact in exo-atmospheric conditions. The guidance suite comprises an active radar seeker coupled with an advanced infrared sensor mounted on the sides of the missile to mitigate atmospheric heating effects during high-speed flight. This combined guidance enables highly accurate target interception at long ranges and altitudes.
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Mobility
The HQ-19 is based on the TAS5380 8×8 high-mobility military truck produced by Taian Special Vehicle Company. It is powered by a 517-horsepower Deutz turbocharged diesel engine that allows it to reach speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour on-road. With an operational range of 800 kilometers, the vehicle is capable of transporting the missile system over diverse terrains. Measuring roughly 11 meters in length, 3 meters in width, and 3 meters in height, the TAS5380 provides ample space and structural support for the heavy payload, while its all-wheel drive and air suspension system ensure operational flexibility and off-road performance.
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Radar and Communication Systems
The HQ-19 system is guided by the Type 610A active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, which boasts a detection range of up to 4,000 kilometers. This radar provides long-range tracking and midcourse guidance updates to the interceptor missile. It is highly resistant to electronic countermeasures and is capable of tracking multiple high-speed, high-altitude threats simultaneously. The radar network is integrated with mobile command and control centers, secure communication systems, and target acquisition radars, ensuring synchronized data flow and rapid threat response within a distributed air defense grid.
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Combat Use
The HQ-19 is designed to engage medium-range ballistic missiles, hypersonic glide vehicles, and low-orbit satellites. It intercepts ballistic threats during their midcourse and terminal flight phases, using direct-impact kinetic destruction to ensure precise neutralization without explosive detonation. Its capacity to operate at the exo-atmospheric level allows it to support both homeland defense and strategic deterrence missions. The system’s mobility enables rapid repositioning to defend key assets, while its high-altitude capabilities position it as a key element in China’s layered missile and space defense strategy.
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