After the recent military conflicts of India-Pakistan, when Pakistan’s air defense network was badly demolished, China has once again come forward to help. According to the Open-SOS Intelligence Network (OSNIT) report, China has sent a new consignment of its medium-range surface to the air defense system to Pakistan.

China’s Y-20 Military Transport Aircraft has flew to Pakistan at least three times in recent weeks. These aircraft have delivered the HQ-16 missile system and a consignment of equipment associated with it. The Y-20 is a heavy lift military jet capable of carrying military materials up to 66 tonnes.

Why the new consignment of HQ-16 was needed?

During the Operation Sindoor run by India between 7 and 10 May, Pakistan’s major airbase such as Noor Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sakkur and Bholari were targeted. The Indian Air Force attacked with BrahMos and Scalp cruise missiles and destroyed Pakistan’s HQ-16 and HQ-9P air defense system and China-made YLC-8E radar.

Can HQ-16 stop BrahMos?

actually no. HQ-16 has a firepower of about 40 km and is usually designed to prevent drones, fighter jets and slow missiles. But the BrahMos missile, whose speed is Mach 2.8–3.0 (three times at the speed of voice) and it is almost impossible for the intercepting HQ-16. This is the reason that HQ-16 proved to be ineffective during Operation Sindoor.

What is the meaning of a new consignment given by Pakistan?

Pakistan’s current air defense capacity is considered to be almost zero. India had also destroyed two of its three surveillance aircraft. In such a situation, sending new consignments by China is to support Pakistan’s military morale, but this will not change a strategic edge.

OSNIT warning

The OSNIT report states that India should keep an eye on China-Pak alliance. Especially in cases of air defense, missile supply and technical military cooperation, the help given by China to Pakistan can remain a strategic challenge for India.

Also read-

Not Pakistan on the tongue, then what Jaishankar said in SCO by pointing to it with its ‘Best Friend’?