In the Middle East, a region with a long history and complex contradictions, military strength has often become an important means of game between countries. Against this background, Iran's air defense system is especially noticeable. The core of this system is the Hongqi-2 missile, which originated from the mainland in the 70s. This modified and developed missile will play an important role in the upcoming war against Israel.
The Hongqi-2 missile, as an air defense missile developed by China in the 70s of the last century, was leading the world in performance at that time. However, the development of military technology is changing with each passing day, and in order to maintain its competitiveness, China developed the M-2 (CSS-8) operational-tactical missile in the mid-80s on the basis of the Hongqi-8. The missile has a maximum range of up to 150 kilometers and a more advanced warhead design, including a 250-kilogram conventional charge single-warhead warhead, a cluster (sub-mother) and a chemical warhead.
These modified missiles were exported to Iran in 1992. The Iranian army actively used these missiles, further improving them and making them more suitable for the Iranian air defense system. In the process, Iran introduced missiles called "Said-1" and "Said-1A", the latter of which used an infrared homing guidance system, an improvement that undoubtedly enhanced the missile's accuracy and hit rate.
Now, as the conflict between Iran and Israel heats up, Iran's air defense system will face serious challenges. However, Iranian anti-aircraft missiles, which have the pedigree of China's Hongqi-2 missiles, will show their worth in this challenge. Their presence will become a major threat to the Israeli Air Force, giving Iran a more advantageous position in the upcoming war.
Generally speaking, the transmission and evolution of military technology is an important way for the development of a country's military strength. Iran's air defense system is a model of this transmission and evolution. In future wars, we look forward to seeing the spirit of the Hongqi-2 missile continued and carried forward in Iran's air defense system.