China's version of "S-350" revealed, surprisingly similar to Russian missile

A video circulating on social media shows the massive launcher, mounted on an 8x8 wheeled chassis, carrying 12 long interceptor missiles and has sparked speculation about its origins and capabilities.

Observers believe the system could be an upgraded version of the HQ-16, a Chinese air defense system believed to use similar technology to Russia's Buk (SA-11 Gadfly) missile system.

Images of China's mysterious air defense system posted by netizens. Photo: X/ David Wang

However, unlike the HQ-16 (Hong Qi) which only has 8 missiles, this system carries up to 12 missiles on its body.

The discovery marks the first time the launcher has been seen in public in what appears to be a routine operation, although its destination and operational status remain unclear.

The HQ-16 family of missiles, developed for medium-range interception missions, is the cornerstone of China’s multi-layered air defense network. However, the newly photographed launcher features notable design changes, including an increased missile payload and integration onto a modern 8x8 chassis, allowing for improved maneuverability across a variety of terrains.

Defense analysts say the presence of 12 interceptors on a single vehicle suggests a system optimized to counter airborne threats, such as swarms of cruise missiles or drones.

"This configuration shows a focus on saturation defense, providing rapid response capabilities against mass attacks similar to Russia's new S-350 system," an expert commented on sinodefenceforum.

Hệ thống phòng không S-350 của Nga — Russian S-350 air defense system

The most noticeable difference is probably the way the missiles are arranged on top. While the Russian S-350 arranges the missiles in a 2x6 line, the Chinese system has them staggered. This is considered an improvement to reduce the overall horizontal size of the system.

The appearance of the system also raises questions about whether it is designed for domestic use only or could eventually be exported. China has been aggressively promoting its advanced missile technology in recent years, targeting customers in Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Cách bố trí các tên lửa trên thân có chút khác biệt so với S-350 của Nga. — The arrangement of missiles on the body is slightly different from the Russian S-350.

Social media users speculate that the launcher’s design borrows heavily from Russia’s S-350, a relatively new addition to Moscow’s air defense arsenal. Both systems are designed for medium-range interception, filling the gap between short-range point defense systems and high-altitude strategic systems like China’s HQ-9 or Russia’s S-400.

As of now, Chinese state media and defense agencies have yet to comment on the photos, leaving many details about the system unknown.