In a clear indication of its evolving military priorities, China North Industries Group (Norinco) has reportedly tested its new Type 625E mobile air defense system against a swarm of drones.
This live-fire exercise, conducted by a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) air defense unit, highlights China’s proactive approach to countering the rapidly growing threat of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on modern battlefields.
The Type 625E is a formidable ground-based air defense platform. It uniquely combines a rapid-firing, 6-barrel 25 mm Gatling-type gun with integrated missile launchers, all mounted on a highly mobile 8×8 wheeled chassis.
This combination provides a versatile solution for engaging a range of low-altitude threats, particularly drones and helicopters, which have proven highly effective in recent conflicts worldwide.
A key feature of the Type 625E is its advanced autonomy. The system is designed to operate independently, equipped with an integrated fire-control radar and sophisticated electro-optical sensors.
This allows it to detect, track, and engage targets with minimal human intervention, making it highly effective in dynamic combat environments. Its ability to operate autonomously, combined with seamless mobility, makes it well-suited for decentralized operations in complex urban and regional battlefields where drone threats can emerge from multiple directions.
The deployment and testing of such a system signal China’s concentrated efforts to modernize its air defense forces. The lessons learned from contemporary conflicts, where drones have played a pivotal role, are influencing military doctrine and equipment development.
The Type 625E represents a significant step in developing robust counter-UAS (C-UAS) capabilities that can effectively defend against the challenges posed by large numbers of inexpensive yet potent aerial threats.
This new system underscores China’s commitment to strengthening its air defense network and ensuring its forces are prepared for the complexities of 21st-century warfare. The Type 625E offers integrated targeting and comprehensive defense against the expanding drone threat, positioning it as a key asset in China’s evolving military arsenal.