Missile HQ-19 (CH-AB-2)

The HQ-19 (NATO reporting name: CH-AB-2) is an anti-ballistic missile and anti-satellite weapon system developed by China as a variant of the HQ-9 surface-to-air missile system. Development began under the 863 Program in the late 1990s. Initial flight testing occurred in 1999, followed by additional tests during the 2010s. The Chinese Ministry of National Defense certified the system in 2021. The HQ-19 entered limited operation in 2018 and was publicly displayed at the Zhuhai Airshow in 2024.

The system is designed to counter medium-range and intermediate-range ballistic missiles in their midcourse and terminal phases, hypersonic glide vehicles, and low-altitude satellites, while offering limited engagement capability against intercontinental ballistic missiles. Target tracking is performed by the Type 610A radar. The missile utilizes dual radar and infrared guidance, featuring side-mounted infrared seeker windows to reduce atmospheric interference. Propulsion is provided by a two-stage, dual-pulsed solid rocket motor delivering a specific impulse of 260 seconds. The carbon-fiber airframe allows structural rigidity for maneuvers up to 60G. Interceptions are executed via direct impact using an exo-atmospheric kinetic kill vehicle.

The HQ-19 is operated by the People's Liberation Army Air Force. In June 2025, Pakistan announced plans to acquire the HQ-19 system for the Pakistan Air Force as part of a defense procurement agreement, with active operational training commencing in 2026.