New Delhi: Amid continued efforts by India and China to mend the ties that nosedived following the eastern Ladakh border standoff, new satellite imagery revealed that the Beijing has deployed its HQ-16 Air Defence System near Pangong Tso Lake.
The Chinese air defence system has the capability to hit enemy aerial targets at a distance of 40 to 70 kilometres, depending on its model. The HQ-16 TEL presence can also be clearly seen in the imagery. The move could impact the strategic balance in the region. Indian security agencies are closely monitoring the development.
The HQ-16 is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system developed by China based on technology from Russia’s BUK system. Its features are as follow:
- The system can target aerial targets from a distance of 40 to 70 kilometres (depending on the version).
- It is also capable of tracking and destroying targets flying at high altitudes.
- The air defence system can simultaneously track and intercept multiple targets such as fighter jets, helicopters, cruise missiles, drones and even some types of precision guided munitions.
- HQ-16 missiles are placed on a mobile launch platform (TEL), allowing the system to be rapidly deployed and redeployed.
- It is loaded with 4 missiles.
- The system is equipped with a 3D radar that tracks targets in autonomous mode and guides the missile.
- HQ-16 also has ECCM (Electronic Counter-Countermeasures) capabilities, allowing it to thwart enemy jamming attempts.
- The missile has a fast launch process, giving it the ability to take immediate action against sudden air attacks.
- HQ-16 can be integrated with other radars, command centers and defense networks, providing a larger air defense system.
The deployment of the system is being seen an attempt to put strategic pressure on India. Ties between India and China came under severe strain following the eastern Ladakh border standoff that began in May 2020.
Tensions between the two countries flared following a deadly clash at the Galwan Valley in June 2020.
The face-off effectively ended after the completion of the disengagement process from the last two friction points of Demchok and Depsang under an agreement finalised on October 21 last year.
