China's HQ-19 surface-to-air missile weapon system will make its public debut at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, or Zhuhai Airshow.
Designed primarily for regional interception of ballistic missile threats, the missile features a wide operational coverage and strong penetration defense, among others.
Mounted on an 8x8 high-mobility truck, each missile launcher carries six interceptor missiles housed in cylindrical "storage-transportation-launch" tubes, and uses a "cold launch" method. In this system, the missile is propelled by gas, and the rocket engine ignites only after the missile has cleared the silo, offering a safer alternative to the "hot-launch" system.
As a next-generation air defense weapon, the HQ-19 is among the world's most advanced missile systems. It can intercept not only conventional ballistic missiles but also hypersonic glide vehicles maneuvering within the atmosphere, according to analysts.
The air show, scheduled for Nov 12-17 in the southern Chinese city of Zhuhai, will feature a diverse range of activities including aerobatic displays, said Senior Colonel Xie Peng, spokesman for the PLA Air Force.
Aircraft set to perform at the show include the J-20, J-16, and the YY-20A for refueling. The cargo hold of Y-20 aircraft will also be open to the public.
This year's event coincides with the 75th anniversary of the founding of the PLA Air Force, which falls on Nov 11.
China's HQ-19 missile system to make debut at Zhuhai Airshow
