HQ-19
The HQ-19 is an anti-ballistic missile and anti-satellite weapon system developed by the People's Republic of China. It is a variant of the HQ-9 long-range surface-to-air missile system. The HQ-19 system is designed to counter medium-range ballistic missile and intermediate-range ballistic missile. It targets ballistic missiles in their midcourse and terminal phases, comparable to the US THAAD.
The missile may have "begun preliminary operations" by 2018.
History and development
The HQ-19 was developed under the 863 Program, initiated in the late 1990s. The missile was successfully tested in 1999, with multiple reports confirming its capability to hit targets at an altitude of and speed of. Several more tests were conducted in the 2010s, with the Chinese Ministry of National Defense certifying the missile capabilities in 2021. The missile entered limited operation in 2018, and was publicly revealed in Zhuhai Airshow in 2024.On 6 June 2025, Pakistan announced plans to acquire the HQ-19.
Design
The HQ-19 is designed to intercept ballistic missiles, counter hypersonic glide vehicle, and engage satellites, largely comparable to the THAAD and SM-3 missile systems. The missile is guided by the Type 610A radar with of detection range, and the missile itself is capable of intercepting ballistic missiles on the range class. The missile uses radar and infrared guidance, with the infrared window mounted on the sides to reduce atmospheric interference. The missile is powered by a two-stage, dual-pulsed solid rocket engine, allowing the missile to achieve a specific impulse of 260 seconds. The missile is constructed with carbon fiber, providing a rigid frame to withstand 60G in maneuvers. The intercept method is a direct impact via the exo-atmospheric kinetic vehicle.The missile was reported to have the capability to intercept medium-range ballistic missile and intermediate-range ballistic missile at the terminal stage, while offering limited capability to target intercontinental ballistic missile and low-altitude satellites.