Missile HQ-17

The HQ-17 is an all-weather, short-range surface-to-air missile system derived from the Tor-M1. Development followed the acquisition of several Tor-M1 systems from Russia in the late 1990s. After a refusal for licensed production, the system was reverse-engineered and entered service in 2013. A wheeled variant was later publicly unveiled in 2019.

The system provides air defense for mechanized troops and critical military premises. It utilizes a solid-fuel rocket motor and carries a high-explosive fragmentation warhead. Guidance is provided via semi-active radar homing, utilizing tracking radar, television sights, or thermal sights. The fire control architecture includes a PESA search radar and an AESA guidance radar, allowing the system to monitor and track multiple targets while engaging two simultaneously. The HQ-17 incorporates an indigenous all-terrain tracked launch vehicle, an identification friend or foe antenna, and datalink capabilities for integration with other defense systems.

Launch platforms include both tracked and 6x6 wheeled chassis. The wheeled variant, designated HQ-17A, is capable of firing while in motion and features a lightly armored hull for protection against small arms fire and shell splinters. Each launch vehicle operates independently, integrating both the radar and missile canisters. A typical battery consists of a command vehicle, multiple launch vehicles, and dedicated reloading and ammunition transport vehicles.

The HQ-17 is in service with the People's Liberation Army Ground Force, where it is deployed in various regions including high-altitude environments. The system has been exported to several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Serbia, and Tajikistan. Export variants include the FM-2000 and HQ-17AE. The HQ-17AE has also been integrated into specialized anti-unmanned aerial vehicle systems featuring low-altitude search radars and ground stations.

🇨🇳 China • 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia • 🇷🇸 Serbia • 🇹🇯 Tajikistan