Post by : Rameen Ariff

Satellite images reveal that China is constructing a new air defence complex near the India border in Tibet, close to Pangong Lake. The facility includes command buildings, barracks, vehicle shelters, munition storage, and radar stations. A key feature is missile launch positions covered with retractable roofs designed for transporter erector launcher (TEL) vehicles, which carry and fire missiles.

Experts believe these hardened launch shelters provide protection and concealment for China’s HQ-9 long-range surface-to-air missile systems. The complex’s design was first identified by US-based AllSource Analysis and is mirrored by a similar site in Gar County, close to India’s Nyoma airfield.

Satellite images from space intelligence company Vantor confirm sliding roofs over the missile bays, large enough to hold two launch vehicles each. This design helps hide the launchers and shield them from attacks while allowing missiles to fire through openings in the roofs.

While this kind of protected missile launch facility is new along the India-Tibet border, similar structures exist in the disputed South China Sea. The presence of wired data connections suggests integration of various air defence system components with the central command at the facility. Parts of the complex remain under construction.

The new installation highlights China’s military buildup and strategy to strengthen its air defence capability along the sensitive border with India.

#world news #Global News