Rare Images of Launch of HJ-10 Anti-Tank Missile from a Chinese Armored Vehicle.

Rare footage was recently broadcast on September 23 by Chinese television network CCTV-7, showing the launch of the HJ-10 anti-tank missile from a Chinese armored vehicle. These images provide insight into the capabilities of this weapon system, which represents one of the latest additions to China's advanced missile arsenal.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Designed with a standard aerodynamic layout, the missile features X-shaped wings that deploy after launch (Picture source: CCTV-7)

The HJ-10, also known as "Red Arrow 10," is an anti-tank missile developed by China's NORINCO corporation. Equipped with a tandem high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead, it can penetrate up to 1,400 mm of conventional steel armor, even when protected by explosive reactive armor. Its maximum operational range is 10 km, and it has the ability to lock onto a target either before or after launch.

The missile is characterized by its cylindrical body with a hemispherical nose cap. Designed with a standard aerodynamic layout, it features X-shaped wings that deploy after launch. Powered by solid propellant engines for both launch and cruise, it measures 1,850 mm in length, has a diameter of 165 mm, and weighs 43 kg at launch. Its cruising speed is 150 m/s, accelerating to 230 m/s during the final phase of its trajectory.

A notable feature of the HJ-10 is its advanced guidance system, which combines television or infrared (IIR) imaging, an inertial system, and a two-way fiber-optic data transmission channel. The target image is transmitted to the operator's console, while control commands are sent back to the missile through the same channel. This system enables various applications, including "fire-and-forget," command guidance, post-launch course correction, and target reacquisition. Future upgrades aim to replace the fiber-optic channel with a radio channel.

The HJ-10 can engage targets directly or from above, using different types of warheads. These options include a tandem HEAT warhead, capable of penetrating 1,200 to 1,400 mm of homogeneous armor, and a "penetrating core" warhead designed to strike targets from above.

When paired with the high mobility features of the MV3 launch vehicle, the system offers a combination of speed, agility, and firepower that can significantly impact the battlefield. The vehicle, based on an all-terrain chassis, is designed for rapid deployment and effective operation in various tactical environments, with the ability to engage both ground and aerial targets, including helicopters.

China has developed a diverse range of anti-tank missiles over the years. In addition to the HJ-10, the "Red Arrow" series includes the HJ-8, a second-generation missile, and the HJ-12, a third-generation portable missile with "fire-and-forget" capability. These developments reflect China's continued efforts to modernize its armed forces and adopt advanced military technologies to enhance its ground forces' capabilities.

Progress in the field of anti-tank missiles highlights China's focus on adapting its military capabilities to evolving battlefield threats.

The HJ-10 can engage targets directly or from above, using different types of warheads (Picture source: CCTV-7)