China deploys PHL-16 MLRS along Taiwan Strait

The PHL-16's armament systems can either be a 10 round that can fire 300 mm rockets with a range of 130 km or an eight round that can fire 370 mm rockets, the example of which is pictured above, having a maximum range of 280 km. The system can also fire two 750 mm Fire Dragon 280A tactical missiles with a maximum range of 290 km. (Norinco)

The People's Liberation Army Ground Force (PLAGF) has deployed the PHL-16 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) in its 73rd Group Army of the Eastern Theatre Command, which is in charge of dealing with conflicts around the Taiwan Strait.

A video clip released by state-owned broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) confirms at least two PHL-16s in service with the PLAGF's 73rd Artillery Brigade of the 73rd Group Army. The system is manufactured by China North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco).

According to Janes Land Warfare Platforms: Artillery & Air Defence, the PHL-16 is based on a modified Wanshan WS2400 8×8 chassis. It has a four-door fully enclosed air-conditioned cab at the front with an additional fully enclosed crew cab to the immediate rear.

The PHL-16's armament systems can either be a 10 round that can fire 300 mm rockets with a range of 130 km or an eight round that can fire 370 mm rockets having a maximum range of 280 km. The system can also fire two 750 mm Fire Dragon 280A tactical missiles with a maximum range of 290 km.

According to China's state-owned daily Global Times, the PHL-16 can even switch to TL-7B anti-ship missiles and 750 mm Fire Dragon 480 tactical ballistic missiles that can hit targets at 360 km.