Is the PHL16 multiple rocket launcher China’s answer to the US Himars system?

As tensions intensify across the Taiwan Strait, Beijing has ramped up its firepower capacity to prepare for a possible war in the region.

One of the weapon systems key to these efforts is the PHL-16, a truck-mounted self-propelled multiple rocket launcher (MRL) that incorporates modular design and long-range precision-strike capabilities.

The system is often described as the mainland Chinese version of Lockheed Martin’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (Himars) that Taiwan has bought and deployed.

Taipei has ordered 29 of the US Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS), receiving 11 in November. They were tested for the first time in May and deployed during the annual Han Kuang drill in July.

Development and design

The PHL-16 – also known as PCL-191 and regarded as China’s most advanced MRL system – was developed by Chinese ground-based weapons manufacturer Norinco. China’s new-generation long-range MRL system was first publicly unveiled during the 2019 military parade to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.