Missile HQ-16 (CH-SA-16)

The HQ-16 is a medium-range surface-to-air missile derived from Russian Buk missile system technology. Development began in 2005, focusing initially on a naval application. Joint development between Russia and China was finalized in 2011, the same year the HQ-16B variant was developed.

The missile utilizes a solid-fuel rocket motor and is guided by semi-active radar homing. Its detonation mechanism incorporates both impact and proximity fuzing. The system is capable of intercepting tactical ballistic missiles. In its ground-based configuration, a battery comprises a command post, two multifunction radars, and four to six transporter erector launchers, with each launcher carrying six missiles. The naval version is integrated into shipborne vertical launch systems.

Variants include the HQ-16A land-based system and the HHQ-16 naval version. The HQ-16B and HQ-16C are iterations of the base model, while the HHQ-16C is an extended-range naval variant. Export versions are designated LY-80 for ground forces and LY-80N for naval units. The HQ-16FE is an improved variant of the system.

The system entered service in 2008 with the induction of the Type 054A frigate. The land-based HQ-16A entered service in 2011. The missile is widely deployed by the People's Liberation Army Ground Force and the People's Liberation Army Navy. Pakistan is an international operator, having concluded negotiations for the system in 2015. The Pakistan Army inducted the LY-80 in March 2017, and the Pakistan Navy operates the naval export variant.