The People’s Republic of China has reportedly unveiled a new anti-drone and anti-missile weapon system for its Armed Forces, which, according to the manufacturer, would be the first of its kind in the world. This prototype, still lacking an official designation, was revealed in an edition of Modern Weaponry magazine, a publication in which the possible features and capabilities of the system are detailed as a response to contemporary threats.
According to information provided by the manufacturer in the magazine, the system would function by launching projectiles that create a barrier, covering all trajectories of incoming targets. This mechanism would enable effective interception through a “plane-to-point” concept, in contrast to conventional weapons that employ a “point-to-point” interception. In the first case, instead of seeking a collision at a single calculated point, the interception occurs within a plane (an imaginary surface) that intersects the target’s trajectory.
An unprecedented development
This short-range system, designed to counter threats such as drone swarms, features 16 guns arranged in a compact configuration and a uniquely designed type of ammunition. Among its characteristics, it stands out for its reload speed, high rate of fire, controllable barrage size, destructive power, and its ability to accompany troops during maneuvers.
According to statements from the designer cited in the magazine, the anti-drone weapon system has undergone multiple tests against drone swarms, and the results demonstrated that it can bring down all small drones with a single barrage. Beyond its anti-drone capabilities, the prototype could also intercept high-speed air-launched munitions, such as missiles. It is also capable of neutralizing rockets, mortar and artillery shells, or being used to strike ground or maritime targets if necessary.
Additionally, the system features a modular configuration, allowing it to be mounted on trucks, wheeled or tracked armored vehicles, as well as warships. This flexibility ensures smooth integration into existing military infrastructures and adaptation to diverse operational environments.
Analysts note that the system is cost-effective and possesses dual capabilities against drone swarms and missiles, positioning it for both domestic use and international markets. This technological breakthrough reflects China’s commitment to more advanced air defense technologies, in light of the current regional context and its national interests.
Lastly, through other Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS), Western companies are also developing systems that resemble China’s. One such example is the new systems being integrated into the U.S. Army’s AMPV multipurpose armored vehicles, where BAE Systems is developing a version equipped with a new Mobile Short Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) system.
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