PA Layered AD System - News , Views & Updates

[CSAW]

ANALYSIS: THE PAKISTAN ARMY’S AIR DEFENCE SYSTEMS QUWA​

In January, the Pakistan Army (PA) conducted an exercise to test its various air defence systems. Based on the details released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media branch of Pakistan’s military, the Army test-fired the gamut of its surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems, namely: “HIMADS,” “LOMADS,” “E-SHORAD,” and “SHORAD.”

Together, these SAMs form the Army’s “Comprehensive Layered Integrated Air Defence” (CLIAD) system. CLIAD is the outcome of a decade-long initiative by the Army to build its own multi-layered ground-based air defence system (GBADS). CLIADS enables the Army to efficiently distribute its SAM deployment and management across its hierarchy, from Corps level to Brigade level. This was a significant step for the Army as it operated mostly man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS), such as the ANZA-series, until the 2010s.

This step was driven to address growing enemy close air support (CAS) and anti-armour/infantry/artillery air threats as well as the need to acquire more flexibility in land forces maneuvers without entirely relying on the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to intercept enemy aircraft and undertake long-range strikes. In terms of the latter, the Army is building its own stand-off range weapon (SOW) capability through artillery.

This analysis aims to unpack the SAM systems under CLIAD and how the Army will leverage it in the long-term for supporting its maneuvers and protecting its assets/facilities.

Pakistan Army’s SAM Systems​

HIMADS​

The High-to-Medium Air Defence System (HIMADS) is the HQ-9/P long-range SAM. Inducted in 2021, the HQ-9/P has a range of 125 km and, according to the Army, can intercept aircraft and cruise missiles. The HQ-9/P’s capacity to intercept cruise missiles is likely limited to a shorter range, possibly under 25 km.

The HQ-9/P’s guidance suite likely leverages an inertial navigation system (INS) aided by a targeting radar via datalink and a terminal-stage active radar-homing (ARH) seeker. The system uses the HT-233 phased-array fire control radar.

LOMADS​

The Low-to-Medium Air Defence System (LOMAD) seems to consist of two SAM systems – the LY-80 and the LY-80EV. The Army inducted the LY-80 in 2017 and it provides a stated range of 40 km. The LY-80EV is less clear; however, it may be the improved 70 km range variant of the HQ-16 revealed in 2016.

The LY-80 uses a semi-active radar-homing (SARH) guidance system where it depends on an illumination radar to maintain a lock on the target as the missile reaches it. It is unclear if the LY-80EV uses a different guidance configuration (e.g., ARH like the HQ-9/P), though it is possible.

The LY-80/EV leverages the IBIS-150, an S-band passive electronically-scanned array (PESA) surveillance radar with a range of 150 km and multiple L-band fire control radars with ranges of 85 km each.

ESHORAD​

The Extended Short-Range Air Defence System (ESHORAD) may be the FM-90 system, which offers a range of 15 km. The FM-90 uses a command guidance system and is primarily designed to intercept low-flying aircraft, drones, and, potentially, missiles/munitions.

SHORAD​

The Short-Range Air Defence System (SHORAD) is likely the ANZA-Mk2. Using infrared (IR) homing for guidance, the MANPADS offers a range of up to 5,000 m. The Army may also be using the Saab RBS-70 NG as a SHORAD system. This is a laser-guided SAM with a maximum range of 9,000 m.

The Army also uses the older RBS-70 (range: 9,000 m), FN-6 (range: 6,000 m), FN-16 (range: 6,000 m), Anza-3 (range: 5,000 m), and Anza-2 (range: 5,000 m) for its SHORAD needs.

Potential Deployment and Utilization​

To what extent the Army’s CLIAD integrates with the PAF’s GBADS is unclear. However, there appears to be a level of demarcation between the ranges covered by the Army and the PAF. For example, the PAF’s new SAM systems – i.e., the HQ-9BE and HQ-16FE – cover 260 km and 160 km, respectively. This is longer than the reach of the Army’s SAMs. Thus, it is possible coverages beyond a certain range and altitude are the responsibility of the PAF, freeing the Army and Navy to build their own capabilities under a threshold…

End of excerpt (571/1,219 words)

 

[CSAW]

 

[CSAW]

 

[CSAW]

 

[Khansaheeb]

ANALYSIS: THE PAKISTAN ARMY’S AIR DEFENCE SYSTEMS QUWA​

In January, the Pakistan Army (PA) conducted an exercise to test its various air defence systems. Based on the details released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media branch of Pakistan’s military, the Army test-fired the gamut of its surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems, namely: “HIMADS,” “LOMADS,” “E-SHORAD,” and “SHORAD.”

View attachment 22026

Together, these SAMs form the Army’s “Comprehensive Layered Integrated Air Defence” (CLIAD) system. CLIAD is the outcome of a decade-long initiative by the Army to build its own multi-layered ground-based air defence system (GBADS). CLIADS enables the Army to efficiently distribute its SAM deployment and management across its hierarchy, from Corps level to Brigade level. This was a significant step for the Army as it operated mostly man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS), such as the ANZA-series, until the 2010s.

View attachment 22027

This step was driven to address growing enemy close air support (CAS) and anti-armour/infantry/artillery air threats as well as the need to acquire more flexibility in land forces maneuvers without entirely relying on the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to intercept enemy aircraft and undertake long-range strikes. In terms of the latter, the Army is building its own stand-off range weapon (SOW) capability through artillery.

This analysis aims to unpack the SAM systems under CLIAD and how the Army will leverage it in the long-term for supporting its maneuvers and protecting its assets/facilities.

Pakistan Army’s SAM Systems​

HIMADS​

The High-to-Medium Air Defence System (HIMADS) is the HQ-9/P long-range SAM. Inducted in 2021, the HQ-9/P has a range of 125 km and, according to the Army, can intercept aircraft and cruise missiles. The HQ-9/P’s capacity to intercept cruise missiles is likely limited to a shorter range, possibly under 25 km.

View attachment 22025

The HQ-9/P’s guidance suite likely leverages an inertial navigation system (INS) aided by a targeting radar via datalink and a terminal-stage active radar-homing (ARH) seeker. The system uses the HT-233 phased-array fire control radar.

LOMADS​

The Low-to-Medium Air Defence System (LOMAD) seems to consist of two SAM systems – the LY-80 and the LY-80EV. The Army inducted the LY-80 in 2017 and it provides a stated range of 40 km. The LY-80EV is less clear; however, it may be the improved 70 km range variant of the HQ-16 revealed in 2016.

View attachment 22029

The LY-80 uses a semi-active radar-homing (SARH) guidance system where it depends on an illumination radar to maintain a lock on the target as the missile reaches it. It is unclear if the LY-80EV uses a different guidance configuration (e.g., ARH like the HQ-9/P), though it is possible.

View attachment 22030

The LY-80/EV leverages the IBIS-150, an S-band passive electronically-scanned array (PESA) surveillance radar with a range of 150 km and multiple L-band fire control radars with ranges of 85 km each.

ESHORAD​

The Extended Short-Range Air Defence System (ESHORAD) may be the FM-90 system, which offers a range of 15 km. The FM-90 uses a command guidance system and is primarily designed to intercept low-flying aircraft, drones, and, potentially, missiles/munitions.

View attachment 22028

SHORAD​

The Short-Range Air Defence System (SHORAD) is likely the ANZA-Mk2. Using infrared (IR) homing for guidance, the MANPADS offers a range of up to 5,000 m. The Army may also be using the Saab RBS-70 NG as a SHORAD system. This is a laser-guided SAM with a maximum range of 9,000 m.

The Army also uses the older RBS-70 (range: 9,000 m), FN-6 (range: 6,000 m), FN-16 (range: 6,000 m), Anza-3 (range: 5,000 m), and Anza-2 (range: 5,000 m) for its SHORAD needs.

Potential Deployment and Utilization​

To what extent the Army’s CLIAD integrates with the PAF’s GBADS is unclear. However, there appears to be a level of demarcation between the ranges covered by the Army and the PAF. For example, the PAF’s new SAM systems – i.e., the HQ-9BE and HQ-16FE – cover 260 km and 160 km, respectively. This is longer than the reach of the Army’s SAMs. Thus, it is possible coverages beyond a certain range and altitude are the responsibility of the PAF, freeing the Army and Navy to build their own capabilities under a threshold…

End of excerpt (571/1,219 words)

We need these tested in active battle zones, the results and outcomes need to proved against real targets in active war zones and not fancy brochures, glossy specifications and lab based tests. Send them to Lebanon, Ukraine, Russia , Syria etc and collect the proof of how good they are from there. Yes they look pretty and potent but it has to be evidence based.

 

[CSAW]

China's AD Systems of various ranges available for Export
China has unveiled various surface-to-air missile (SAM) weapon systems for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) at the Airshow China 2022 exhibition held in Zhuhai from 8 to 13 November.

The country showcased the FK-3000 air-defence missile weapon system, the HQ-16FE mid- to long-range air-defence missile weapon system, and the Red-11 (also called HQ-11) universal terminal defence system at the show.

The FK-3000, manufactured by China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), is an anti-cluster and anti-ammunition air-defence weapon system. Janes learnt that the master combat vehicle of the FK-3000 system integrates an anti-ammunition air-defence missile, an anti-cluster mini-missile, and a radio-jamming transmitter. The system can be equipped with two optional unmanned slave ground combat vehicles, called the FK-3000 auxiliary launching vehicles.

The master combat vehicle of the system is a transporter, erector, launcher, and radar (TELAR) based on an SX2220 6×6 platform. The TELAR consists of an unmanned turret with a cannon, a search radar, and a fire-control radar. Janes assesses that the master vehicle is equipped with six SAMs, an automatic Gatling-type cannon, and 48 smaller SAMs.

The FK-3000 auxiliary launching vehicle equips a remote-controlled turret mounted with an electro-optic/infrared sight and 24 short-range SAMs carried within six tube launch containers. According to CASIC, the FK-3000 system can operate day and night in all weather conditions, and has an interception slant range between 300 m and 12 km. The FK-3000 is responsible for intercepting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ammunition targets, cruise missiles, armed helicopters, and other small targets in wartime, and guarding the city in peacetime.

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At Zhuhai Airshow 2022, the Chinese manufacturer SAST presents a new variant of the HQ-16 air defense system, called HQ-16FE, East Pendulum has tweeted. The flight envelope has been greatly expanded while the size of the container seems to remain unchanged.

HQ-16 (Red Banner-16) is a medium-range semi-active radar-homing surface-to-air missile. Development of the HQ-16 began in 2005. Some source claims the development was reportedly assisted by Russian company Almaz-Antey, and the system is reportedly based on the combination of Buk-M1 and Buk-M2 surface-to-air missile systems.

Military Watch Magazine believes the system is not a copy of either Buk-M1 or Buk-M2. HQ-16 features a vertical launch system, giving it 360-degree coverage and the capability to fire in a complicated geographical environment, which the Buk system lacks. The missile system is mounted on a Chinese-designed 6x6 high mobility chassis instead of tracked platforms, providing ease of maintenance and better road mobility. In 2011, the development was completed and the HQ-16 was officially inducted into service. In 2016, an upgraded version named HQ-16B was unveiled. Due to an improved rocket motor and revised wings, the range was increased to 70 km. The upgraded version also appeared to have a longer body

A typical formation consists of one command vehicle, one search radar vehicle, 3 radar guidance vehicles and 12 launch vehicles. Each launch vehicle carries up to 6 missiles. According to ArmyRecognition, technical support equipment for the system includes missile transportation and loading vehicle, power supply vehicle, maintenance vehicle, and missile-test equipment. The command vehicle is responsible to send target information and combat orders.

HQ-16 missile weighs 650 kg, has a length of 5.2 m and a diameter of 0.34 m. It can intercept flying aerial targets at altitudes of 15 km to 18 km. The maximum interception range for aircraft is 40 km, between 3.5 km and 12 km for cruise missiles flying at 300 m/s. The manufacturer claims the single-shot kill probability is 85% against aircraft and 60% against cruise missiles. The missile has a speed of 1200 m/s.

The missile guidance system comprises inertial guidance and semi-active radar homing at the terminal phase. It was reported that the naval variant of the missile was designed to intercept sea-skimming missiles that can fly less than ten meters above the surface.


A typical land-based battery consists of one search radar vehicle and 3 guidance radar vehicles. A single guidance radar vehicle can control two to four launcher vehicles, each of which has six missiles ready to launch.

The search radar vehicle is equipped with a mast mounting an IBIS 150 S-band 3D PESA radar. When a target is detected, the search radar automatically performs IFF (Identification Friend-or-Foe), threat judgment, and flight path processing and provides target engagement information to the guidance radar. The search radar has a range of 140 km and can detect targets flying up to an altitude of 20 km. It can detect up to 144 targets and track 48 simultaneously.

The radar guidance vehicle is equipped with an L-band PESA that controls the missile launching and target illumination after the missile is fired. The radar has a range of 85 km and can detect up to 6 targets, track 4 simultaneously and provide fire control for 8 missiles.


The launch vehicle is a Taian TA5350 6×6 high-mobility truck developed by Taian Special Vehicle Company. It is powered by a 250hp Deutz AG BF6M1015 turbocharged diesel engine produced in China under license. The vehicle has a road range of 1,000 km and a maximum road speed of 85 km/h. It can climb a gradient of up to 60% and a side slope of up to 30% as well as cross vertical obstacles up to 0.5 m tall, trenches up to 0.6 m deep and ford through water up to 1 m deep without preparation. Prior to firing, the wheels are lifted off the ground by 4 hydraulic jacks and the 6 missile canisters are tilted back to a vertical position. The missiles use a cold launch system.


The HQ-16A has been adopted by the People's Liberation Army Ground Force as one its main surface-to-air missiles. Additionally, its naval version HQ-16 is deployed on PLA Navy ships such as the Type 054A frigates.

During IDEAS 2014, Pakistan announced that it had ordered three HQ-16AE/LY-80 systems and eight IBIS-150 radars for US$225.77 million and $40 million, respectively. In 2014–2015, Pakistan followed up with a $373.23 million order for six additional HQ-16AE systems. On 12 March 2017, Pakistan announced that it had fully inducted the LY-80 into service. During the 2-week long Al-Bayza military exercise in 2019, Pakistan test-fired the LY-80 missile. Pakistan Army has deployed the HQ-16 battery in Azad Kashmir.

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As reports came on social media The Pakistan Army Air Defence Corps has recently received a significant boost in its capabilities with the acquisition of the high-to-medium range air defence system (HIMADS) HQ-16FE. This cutting-edge system boasts an impressive operational engagement range of 160 kilometres against fighter-sized Radar Cross Section (RCS) targets.

The system, designated LY-80EP, is composed of an AESA Tracking Radar capable of tracking targets with fighter jet-sized RCS at distances of up to 250 kilometres. Additionally, it features a surveillance radar with the capability to detect targets at an astonishing range of 300 kilometres. This acquisition marks a milestone for the Pakistan Army, as the LY-80EP system will be its longest-ranged air defence system to date.

Moreover, the HQ-9P air defence system, with an engagement range of 125 kilometres, further complements the country’s air defence capabilities. This procurement aligns with the broader goal of establishing a comprehensive, integrated, and layered air defence umbrella.

One of the most striking features of the newly acquired system is its mobile nature. This mobility allows Pakistani commanders to not only provide theatre/area defence for the homeland but also establish anti-access area-denial (A2AD) zones on the frontline, showcasing its adaptability to varying strategic requirements.

The system’s advanced design is tailored for intercepting 4th and 5th generation fighters, short-range/tactical ballistic missiles, and supersonic cruise missiles, with a remarkable engagement range of over 150 kilometres. Notably, the missile itself represents a complete redesign from other HQ SAM variants. It possesses an aerodynamically clean design, dual active guidance modes, and the ability to execute high off-boresight manoeuvres, including 90°+ turns mid-flight with forces of up to 35 g.

It is worth noting that the missile is a product of the Chinese state-owned Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, indicating the collaborative efforts in advancing Pakistan’s air defence capabilities.

However, despite these significant advancements, it’s important to highlight that Pakistan currently lacks operational Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) capabilities or Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicles (MIRVs). This suggests a certain limitation in long-range strategic missile technology.


An incident that underscores the significance of these upgrades occurred when India reported the accidental launch of a BrahMos missile, a situation Pakistan’s previous defence systems were trash in front of s400 or Israel’s iron dome and unable to detect and defend against, even though the missile was unarmed.

In conclusion, the recent acquisitions and upgrades in Pakistan’s air defence capabilities represent a substantial leap forward in the country’s ability to safeguard its airspace and protect vital assets. These systems provide a robust defence against a wide array of aerial threats, significantly bolstering Pakistan’s national security posture."

Pakistan Army Upgrades Battlefield/Tactical Pakistan Air Defence Capabilities - Zorays Khalid

The Pakistan Army Air Defence Corps has recently received a significant boost in its capabilities with the acquisition of the high-to-medium range air defence system (HIMADS) HQ-16FE. This cutting-edge system boasts an impressive operational engagement range of 160 kilometres against...

www.zorayskhalid.com

 

[farooqbhai]

@Panzerkiel would PA happen to be interested in the LY70 SAM, given its a rather interesting single vehicle system with range equal to the PA's baseline LY80.

 

[Panzerkiel]

@Panzerkiel would PA happen to be interested in the LY70 SAM, given its a rather interesting single vehicle system with range equal to the PA's baseline LY80.

They were interested. But presently, couple of different systems are being 'evaluated'.

 

[Panzerkiel]

They were interested. But presently, couple of different systems are being 'evaluated'.

...of course i dont mean to say that LY70 is out. Its very IN.

 

[MS Sandhu]

.of course i dont mean to say that LY70 is out. Its very IN.

Sir will you comment on Pakistan's in-house program.
If Military invests in this program it will turn out to be another success story from NESCOM like Shahpar series UAVs.

 

[farooqbhai]

...of course i dont mean to say that LY70 is out. Its very IN.

Ah I see.
I also do wonder why PA ended up buying a ER variant of LY80 rather going straight for LY80B (HQ16FE) purchase. The radar set was changed anyway with the ER variant so I guess it was just missile cost that was deciding Factor.

 

[farooqbhai]

Also seems like PA using 37mm AA Naval mounts adapted to land based trailer mount during the recent exercise.

 

[m52k85]

The war gaming geeks in the Pakistan Army will no doubt be having a hell of a time since the Ukraine war. My hunch is Pak army will need to come up with a credible FAAZ and Anza based E-Shorads set-up with proper sensor integration and proliferate that down to the brigade level. The Anza based Shorads with passive sensing down to even the battalion level.

 

[arslank01]

The war gaming geeks in the Pakistan Army will no doubt be having a hell of a time since the Ukraine war. My hunch is Pak army will need to come up with a credible FAAZ and Anza based E-Shorads set-up with proper sensor integration and proliferate that down to the brigade level. The Anza based Shorads with passive sensing down to even the battalion level.

@farooqbhai

IMO the best solution- which we discussed before, a single truck, giraffe 1x and eo for track, backed up by RBS70NG as the effector, something like this would be very mobile, very compact and very capable.

 

[krayon]

...of course i dont mean to say that LY70 is out. Its very IN.

Is it true about PAF getting HQ 16FE varient?