Chinese HQ-19 THAAD To Intercept Hypersonic Missiles

After 14 years of testing, China has officially unveiled the Hongqi-19 (HQ-19), an advanced anti-ballistic missile system capable of intercepting threats beyond the atmosphere and hypersonic targets within it. The HQ-19, also known as Red Flag-19, represents a significant technological leap forward and is being positioned as a more capable alternative to the U.S. Army’s Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system developed in the 1990s.

Technical Capabilities and Advancements

Like THAAD, the HQ-19 operates using “hit-to-kill” technology, employing kinetic energy rather than explosive warheads to destroy incoming missiles. While China has not released comprehensive specifications, analysts believe the HQ-19 may exceed THAAD’s performance envelope significantly. Chinese military publications suggest the system could reach altitudes of 500-600km, far surpassing THAAD’s 150km ceiling, thanks to its more effective two-stage launcher and superior propellant.

Hypersonic Defense Capabilities

A key differentiator is the HQ-19’s confirmed ability to counter hypersonic glide vehicles within the atmosphere a capability beyond THAAD’s current design parameters. This is particularly significant as hypersonic weapons present unique challenges with their speed, maneuverability, low flight paths, and unpredictable trajectories. However, experts note the system’s hypersonic interception ability is likely limited to short and medium-range multiple-surface waverider missiles.

Development Journey and Strategic Focus

China began technical testing of the HQ-19 in 2010 and announced its seventh successful test in 2023, focusing on midcourse interception. This approach differs from THAAD’s terminal or re-entry phase interception strategy and demonstrates China’s growing capability in managing challenging exo-atmospheric conditions and space-based speed control. The Pentagon has acknowledged China’s development of ballistic missile defense systems with both exo-atmospheric and endo-atmospheric kinetic energy interceptors.

Advanced Launch System

The HQ-19’s launcher employs an eight-wheel drive high-mobility truck mounted with six interceptor missiles. Each missile measures approximately 50cm in diameter and seven meters in length larger than THAAD’s 37cm diameter, 6.17-meter long interceptors. The system features near-vertical launch capability with 360-degree targeting flexibility. Unlike THAAD’s single-stage motor, the HQ-19 utilizes a two-stage solid-fuel rocket motor, potentially providing higher speeds and greater range.

Also read this: China Deployed HQ-29 Highly Advanced BMD System

Cutting-Edge Radar Technology

The system’s accuracy depends on its phased array radar system, which has an estimated range of up to 4,000km. While speculation exists about the exact radar configuration, analysis suggests the HQ-19 likely employs a single X-band radar similar to THAAD’s approach. This sophisticated detection system enables the tracking and interception of high-altitude threats that could threaten Chinese territory.

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