Russian air defense unit spotted with possible Chinese QW-18/19 MANPADS

Russian mobile air defense units have been observed potentially utilizing Chinese QW-18/19 man-portable air defense systems, according to Militarnyi. Journalists witnessed one such system alongside the weaponry of a Russian 51st Air Defense Division mobile air defense group during training exercises in Rostov Oblast. Personnel designated the device as "Iva," but its appearance does not align with any MANPADS currently in use by the Russian military.

Militarnyi highlighted that the launcher shares characteristics with both Iran's Misagh-3 MANPADS and China's QW-18A/QW-19 systems. The absence of markings on the launcher suggests a possible effort to obscure the system's country of origin. Further examination of photographs may reveal a closer resemblance to a Chinese MANPADS, as an extra feature on the launcher's nose is not present in images of Iran's Misagh-3.

However, the images could depict a newer version of the system, as there is no conclusive evidence to confirm this due to varying placements of the feature in available photos, Militarnyi stated. Experts emphasized the challenge in determining whether the system is specifically a Chinese QW-18 or QW-19 based on the current material.

There is also speculation that Russia may be acquiring the MANPADS via Iran, which imports Chinese weapons, including man-portable air defense systems. Militarnyi noted an agreement between Iran and China to supply up to 400 MANPADS, valued at $60 million to $70 million, reported in July. The package is expected to include QW-12 and FN-16 systems, with Iran's Misagh systems derived from China's QW family of MANPADS.

Pakistan also manufactures similar systems, referred to as the Anza-2. Politico previously reported that Chinese state-owned company Jilin Chemical Fiber Group supplied Russia with chemicals required to manufacture kamikaze drones, citing internal shipping documents from a Russian company obtained by the outlet.