China has launched the HQ-19 (Hongqi-19), an anti-ballistic missile system, capable of intercepting threats including those moving at hypersonic speeds within and beyond the atmosphere. This new system also known as Red Flag-19 has undergone 14 years of testing.
HQ-19 is regarded as a rival to the U.S. Army’s Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) anti-missile system which was developed in the 1990s. It features two Transporter Erector Launchers (TELs) with six interceptor missiles each, a unique steep-angle cold launch mechanism, strong penetration and countermeasure capabilities, and high-atmospheric and exoatmospheric interception capabilities.
The HQ-19 is a new generation of independently developed Chinese defense technology. It stands out with its versatile interception capabilities. The Hongqi-19 can counter traditional ballistic missiles, gliding maneuvering penetration hypersonic missiles within the atmosphere, and various aerial threats across a wide speed range.
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HQ-19 Strategic Significance in China’s Defense
This new anti-ballistic missile system is capable of protecting major cities and civilian populations. It can be deployed to shield strategic military positions and enhance the credibility of China’s nuclear strike and counterattack capabilities. Moreover, HQ-19 serves as a crucial air and space shield for national security interests. It successfully reproduced the situation of USA Standard 3, during the 2013 and 2014 interception tests, intercepting the USA-193 at that time.
Defense experts believe the HQ-19’s maximum altitude could be 500km to 600km because its closing speed, that is the relative speed at which the distance between the interceptor and its target decreases, is much quicker than that of THAAD. The Chinese anti-ballistic missile system is a more effective two-stage launcher and more powerful fuel.
Furthermore, its ability to counter hypersonic glide vehicles within the atmosphere exceeds THAAD’s powers. However, HQ-19’s ability to intercept hypersonic targets is expected to be limited to short- to medium-range multiple-surface wave rider missiles.
