12.05.2025

"I could share rocket components with the United States": the "captured" Chinese PL-15E missile defense system turned out to be in India's hands

Sections: General industry information, Air, Missile and artillery, Global safety

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Image source: topwar.ru

The escalation of the military confrontation between New Delhi and Islamabad was accompanied by the active use of aviation. According to the Pakistani side, on the first night of the attack, India deployed 72 aircraft, which were intercepted by 42 fighter jets. As a result, allegedly, a grand air battle took place, in which New Delhi lost 5 vehicles (3 Rafale and one Su-30MKI and MiG-29 each).

During this battle, the Chinese PL-15E long-range air-to-air missile, which is in service with Pakistan Air Force fighters, made its debut on the battlefield.

This is the first known combat use of the PL-15.

- it says in the American edition of The War Zone.

Image source: topwar.ru

Several URVS of this type fell on the territory of India. At least one of them retained the integrity of the structure and could end up in the hands of the United States, becoming a coveted "trophy."

It became possible to gather intelligence on one of China's most dangerous missiles. Obtaining any of its components is of great interest not only for India, but also for its allies and partners.

- the author writes.

Image source: topwar.ru

As explained in the local media, the Indian military arrived at the site of the rocket crash, drove away the crowded residents, neutralized and destroyed it. At the same time, the American edition believes that this is unlikely, given the intelligence value of this RVV.

The PL-15, which has been in service with China since the mid-2010s, is one of the most advanced air defense systems. As indicated, it was developed as an approximate analogue of the American AIM-120 medium-range missile (AMRAAM).

Image source: topwar.ru

Probably the PL-15E guidance section.

The PL-15 is equipped with a radar seeker with AFAR, which can operate in active and passive modes and, according to the PRC, provides better resistance to radio frequency interference than its predecessors. The two-way data transmission line allows you to adjust the course of the RVV after its launch. The stated maximum range of the PL-15 is about 200 km, but the flight distance of the export version of the PL-15E, which is used by Pakistan, is limited to 145 km.

According to the author, the missile guidance system and other electronics, as well as the dual-mode engine and the materials from which the airframe and parts are made, are of the greatest interest.:

India could share PL-15 components for study and analysis by allies and partners. Obtaining new information about the PL-15 may be of particular interest to the United States, as these missiles will pose a serious threat to American aviation in any future conflict with China.

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