Pakistan’s Chinese-made HQ-9B missile systems failed to counter Indian strikes during Operation Sindoor, highlighting vulnerabilities in Beijing’s air defense technology. The operation occurred on May 7-8, 2025, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. This tri-service mission targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir without escalating tensions.
Chinese Systems Struggle in Combat
Over four consecutive days, Pakistan’s HQ-9B surface-to-air missiles, along with JY-27A radars, proved ineffective. They failed to track, intercept, or engage Indian missiles and aircraft. Analysts note serious concerns about the HQ-9B’s performance since last May, describing it as ‘soundly defeated’ and unable to defend against threats. ‘They were unable to defend, destroy, or track anything,’ experts observe.
Marketed as a competitor to Western systems like the Patriot, the HQ-9B—also known as Red Flag 9—draws partial design from the U.S. Patriot and Russia’s S-300. Despite claims of multi-target engagement, it underperformed in real combat, appearing ‘blind, deaf, and mute.’
India’s Layered Defense Succeeds
India countered with a robust air defense network, featuring the long-range S-400 Triumf, dubbed Sudarshan, and the homegrown Akash system for medium-range threats. These intercepted incoming Pakistani aircraft, drones, and missiles effectively.
Wider Scrutiny on Chinese Hardware
Similar shortcomings have surfaced elsewhere. Chinese radars in Venezuela missed aircraft during a U.S.-led operation. Iran’s defenses, incorporating Chinese systems, faltered in Operation Epic Fury, where U.S. strikes eliminated key figures including senior military officers.
These incidents erode trust in Chinese technology among major buyers like Egypt, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Iran, who invested billions. The developments also intensify focus in Taiwan amid escalating regional challenges.
