HQ-22 Air Defense System

Full Specifications

HQ-22 Air Defense System: Modern Medium-Range Shield

The HQ-22 Air Defence System, developed by China’s defense industry for medium- to long-range air defense missions, has rapidly emerged as one of the country’s most widely fielded surface-to-air missile platforms. Designed to counter modern threats—including aircraft, cruise missiles, UAVs, and select ballistic targets—the HQ-22 is frequently compared to systems like the American Patriot PAC-2 and the Russian Buk-M3, making it a notable asset in China’s layered air defense network.

Development and Capabilities

Manufactured by CASIC (China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation), the HQ-22 was officially introduced into service in the mid-2010s. The system emphasizes affordability, mobility, and strong electronic countermeasure resistance. One of its defining features is its semi-active radar homing missile, supported by a phased-array tracking radar capable of simultaneously monitoring multiple targets. Engagement ranges vary by missile variant, with estimates suggesting 100–170 km for aerial targets and lower ranges for high-maneuver or low-signature threats.

Operational Purpose

The HQ-22 fills a critical role between short-range and long-range interceptors, providing regional air defense for key military installations, logistic hubs, and command infrastructure. Its truck-mounted design allows rapid redeployment and flexible battlefield positioning—an important feature for modern mobile warfare.

Technology and Effectiveness

Equipped with frequency-agile radar, digital fire control, and network-capable command posts, the HQ-22 can operate autonomously or fully integrated into a wider air defense grid. While less sophisticated than Western high-tier interceptors, its balance of range, mobility, and cost-efficiency has attracted international attention, with Serbia among its notable export customers.

Overall, the HQ-22 represents China’s modern approach to defense modernization—offering a capable, scalable medium-range solution for complex airspace environments.

HQ-22 Air Defense System Price

Although the HQ-22 is not available for U.S. acquisition, defense analysts estimate an export battery cost between USD 300–500 million, depending on configuration and support packages.