HQ-9 vs S-300PS: how to tell them apart

Two air defence systems that are easy to mix up at a glance. Here is what tells them apart.

HQ-9

Air defence system, China. In service since 2001

What gives it away

Long-range system like the S-300: big square missile canisters raised upright at the back of a large 8x8 truck.

Used by

China, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Egypt

S-300PS

Air defence system, Soviet Union. In service since 1985

What gives it away

Large eight-wheeled truck carrying four tall cylindrical canisters raised upright to fire.

Used by

Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan and others

HQ-9 · S-300PS · All guides