PHL-16
| Industry | Defense |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1980 |
| Headquarters | China |
| Products | Military vehicles, artillery systems including PHL-16 multiple rocket launcher |
The PHL-16, alternatively designated as the PCL-191, is a self-propelled multiple rocket launcher (MRL) system mounted on a truck, developed by the People's Republic of China. It was officially introduced into service in 2019 and is currently operated by the People's Liberation Army Ground Force.
This system weighs approximately 45 tons and spans 12 meters in length, utilizing an 8×8 wheeled diesel-powered chassis that accommodates a crew of three personnel. Its main weaponry comprises two modular launch compartments, each capable of being configured to carry either a single 750mm tactical ballistic missile (TBM), four 370mm rockets, or five 300mm rockets. Such modularity provides adaptable firepower suited to various operational demands.
The PHL-16 is compatible with a diverse assortment of munitions, including the BRE8 rocket with a maximum range reaching up to 280 km and the TL-7B anti-ship missile extending up to 360 km. Additionally, standard rockets like the BRE3 deliver effective coverage at distances near 130 km. This assortment significantly boosts China's precision long-range strike proficiency.
Engineered for swift maneuverability and deployment, the PHL-16 enhances China's artillery modernization by integrating modular payload options with extended operational reach along critical strategic axes.
Development
Originating from the AR-3 MRL developed by Norinco and first introduced to the market in 2010, the PHL-16 was publicly revealed during the 2019 Chinese National Day Parade. Its unmarked vehicles distinguish it from other rocket launcher systems.
Design
Launcher units operate within a firepower battery capable of independent action. A standard battery typically consists of six launcher vehicles, alongside reloading trucks, a command post vehicle, meteorological reconnaissance units, and additional support elements.
Rockets
Contrasting with the fixed-ammunition PHL-03, the PHL-16 is equipped with two modular launch cells, each able to deploy either five 300 mm rockets or four 370 mm rockets. The export AR-3 variant also supports launching 750 mm Fire Dragon 480 tactical ballistic missiles and 380 mm TL-7B anti-ship missiles—capabilities presumed to be shared by PLA versions. During the 2019 parade, the system was configured with eight 370 mm rockets.
Chassis
The launcher vehicle is built upon the 45-ton WS2400 8×8 specialized wheeled chassis platform.
Operational history
In February 2023, deployment of the PHL-16 was recorded within the 73rd Group Army under the Eastern Theatre Command, which oversees operations in the Taiwan Strait region.
Variants
- AR-3
- Initial baseline model introduced in 2010.
- PHL-16
- Variant tailored for service with the People's Liberation Army.
Operators
- People's Liberation Army Ground Force – Over 120 units in service as of 2025.