Zhuhai arms show to display first declassified missile defense system

China has declassified for the first time one of its dedicated missile defense weapon systems, and it will be displayed at an upcoming arms show.

The HQ-19 surface-to-air missile system has been deployed by the People's Liberation Army Air Force and was highly classified until Tuesday, when the Air Force announced its participation in the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition scheduled to begin next week in Zhuhai, Guangdong province.

According to the Air Force, the missile system was developed by Chinese aerospace industry researchers on their own. It is tasked with intercepting incoming ballistic missiles, featuring a large defense coverage and the ability to take strong countermeasures against its targets.