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TY-90 (Chinese: 天燕-90; pinyin: Tiān Yàn-90; lit. 'Sky Swallow-90'; NATO reporting name: CH-SA-13[1]) is a Chinese air-to-air missile specifically developed for attack helicopter dogfights. Contrary to erroneous claims, the missile is not developed from MANPADS missiles, but instead, it is specifically designed as an air-to-air missile to engage in helicopter combat.[2][better source needed]

Key Information

Design and development

[edit]
TY-90 (right-center) missiles showcased at Zhuhai Airshow 2024

Chinese determined that the MANPAD missiles converted for helicopter dogfights were not adequate, so a brand-new air-to-air missile specifically for helicopter use was sanctioned, and TY-90 was the resulting product. The 3 kg (6.6 lb) warhead of the missile is specially designed to sever the rotary wings with a single shot, and the missile has all-aspect attack capability. The missile is designed to ensure a single shot would be sufficient to down an opposing attack helicopter or at least knock it out of action.[2]

At least three additional versions have been developed in addition to the basic version, two of them being air-to-air versions. The first adopts a dual-band guidance, adding UV to the original IR, while the second adopts an Imaging IR (ImIR) guidance. During the 5th Zhuhai Airshow held at the end of 2004, a ground-launched air defense version appeared, with the designation of DY-90, which was essentially the original TY-90, but with an additional option of incorporating a rocket booster to increase range upon customer's request.[2]

A naval surface-to-air version is also developed, utilizing the FLS-1 system and the basic version with IR guidance, thus providing a fire-and-forget capability in comparison to the case where QW-3 is used. However, this naval version has not entered service as of 2008, and the reason is reported that the Chinese military wants to wait until the more advanced dual-band or ImIR version can be incorporated into the FLS-1 system, which was under development. However, at Zhuhai Airshow, AVIC I, the developer of TY-90 only acknowledged the development and active marketing of such systems, but refused to further confirm whether the Chinese military or any foreign customers had placed any orders, and neither did the developer confirm such developmental works were privately funded by the developer or received any funds from the state or foreign customers.[2]

Variants

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SG-II ADS

[edit]

In 2004, a land-based air defense variant of TY-90 is revealed to the Chinese public after entering Chinese service in small numbers for some time. Shengong (Deity Bow, 神弓)-II Air Defense System (SG-II ADS) is the upgrade of its predecessor SG ADS, with a quadruple TY-90/DY-90 missile launcher replacing the original Type 80 23mm AAA gun in its predecessor, resulting in the new SG-II ADS. Like its predecessor, SG-II ADS is also a towed system and uses all other subsystems of its predecessor with the exception of the gun. Because TY/DY-90 is a fire and forget weapon, no modification is needed for the fire control system of the original SG ADS.

Hunter air defense system

[edit]

During the 5th Zhuhai Airshow held at the end of 2004, a mobile land-based air defense variant of TY-90 was revealed, dubbed as LS ADS, short for Lie-Shou (猎手, meaning Hunter) Air Defense System. Eight TY-90 in two groups of four are mounted in the back of a Dongfeng EQ2050, and the fire control system consists of electro-optics including laser, IR & TV, mounted between the two quadruple launchers.

The LS ADS is developed by Norinco, with Dongfeng Motor Corporation as the subcontractor to develop the chassis (vehicle). LS ADS is capable of being air transported, including being slung under helicopters. The system is operated by a team of two, one driver and one weaponry system officer. The system can also be integrated into a larger air defense network. A small number subsequently entered PLA service for evaluation purposes.

Type 92 Yitian

[edit]

The TY-90 has been mounted on the WZ-551 armored personnel carrier as an air defense vehicle for mechanized forces. In 2005, this mobile land-based air defense system was revealed to the Chinese public, called Yi-Tian (Chinese: 倚天) Air Defense System, or YT ADS. The weaponry includes eight TY-90 missiles, QJC-88 12.7 mm heavy machine gun, and 2 sets of 4 smoke grenade dischargers. WZ-551 is the chassis of the Yi-Tian air defense system, giving the system amphibious capability and added protection. Additionally, a light solid-state 3-D passive phased array radar is added to the fire control system, just above the original electro-optical fire control system, providing the ADS with a greater surveillance range. The radar can be folded down for traveling and transportation.[3] Yi-Tian system was modified and improved upon customer request, and renamed to Tianlong 6 (Sky Dragon 6) SHORAD missile weapon system. Laotian army signed the contract with China in 2010, becoming the first customer of the Tianlong 6 system.[4][5]

Specifications:

  • Maximum target altitude: 4 km
  • Minimum target altitude: 15 meter
  • Maximum target range: 6 km
  • Minimum target range: 300 meter
  • Maximum target speed: > 400 meter / second
  • Maximum radar searching range: >20 km
  • Maximum radar tracking range: 10 – 12 km
  • System reaction time: 6 – 8 seconds

Yitian-L

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The Yitian-L is a short-range air defense system consisting of 4 TY-90 missiles and X-band 3D search radar mast mounted on a 4x4 Dongfeng tactical vehicle chassis.[6]

SWS-2

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The SWS-2 is a SHORAD gun/missile system, based on the chassis of VN-1. It is armed with a 35 mm revolver cannon and four TY-90 surface-to-air missiles. The system was marketed by China in 2016.[7][8]

Operators

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Non-state actors

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Specifications (TY-90)

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For air-to-air version:[2][11]

  • length: 1.9 meter
  • diameter: 0.09 metre
  • weight: 20 kg
  • warhead: 3 kg
  • Maximum g-force: 20 g
  • guidance: infrared homing
  • fuze: laser proximity / contact
  • speed: > Mach 2
  • minimum range: 0.5 km
  • maximum range: 8 km
  • minimum altitude: 0 meter
  • maximum altitude: 6 km
  • single-shot kill probability: > 80%
  • developer: China Aviation Industry Corporation I

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

TY-90

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The TY-90 (Tian Yan-90, meaning "Sky Swallow-90") is a Chinese short-range developed specifically for use by attack helicopters to engage enemy helicopters and low-flying aircraft in close-quarters combat. Designed by the National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) in the late and entering service in the early , the TY-90—developed on the basis of the QW-2 —features an with all-aspect targeting capabilities, enabling it to lock onto signatures from any angle, including frontal attacks. It has a reported range of up to 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) and can withstand high-G maneuvers, making it suitable for the dynamic environment of helicopter dogfights. The missile is launched from helicopter platforms such as the Z-9 and Z-10, and its is optimized to disable systems or critical components with a single hit, rather than relying solely on explosive fragmentation. A ground-launched variant, known as the DY-90, adapts the TY-90 for roles, integrating it into systems like the Yitian vehicle-mounted launcher to counter , drones, and low-altitude cruise missiles. This adaptation expands its utility beyond aerial platforms, providing mobile, low-level protection for ground forces. The TY-90's development addressed a gap in Chinese rotary-wing armament, influenced by observations of helicopter vulnerabilities in conflicts like the Iran-Iraq War.

Design and development

Background and requirements

In the 1990s, the (PLA) intensified efforts to bolster its capabilities, particularly for close-range air combat, following observations of helicopter vulnerabilities and successes during the 1991 . The performance of U.S. AH-64 helicopters in that conflict highlighted the need for advanced rotary-wing platforms equipped for anti-helicopter engagements, prompting China to prioritize the development of specialized armaments to address similar tactical gaps in its own forces. This strategic shift led to requirements for a short-range, -guided tailored for dogfights against other helicopters, emphasizing high maneuverability, engagement, and resistance to infrared countermeasures to ensure effectiveness in low-altitude, dynamic scenarios. The missile was envisioned as lightweight to maximize on helicopters while delivering sufficient kinetic and explosive impact to penetrate armored , distinguishing it from general-purpose systems. Development of the TY-90 was initiated in the late by National Aero-Technology Import & Export (CATIC, part of the Industry (AVIC)), focusing on integration with rotary-wing platforms rather than adaptation from man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS), despite early misconceptions suggesting a derivation from the QW-2, and first introduced in early 2000. This purpose-built design addressed the unique demands of helicopter-launched operations, such as size constraints and launch dynamics, marking it as China's first dedicated anti-helicopter .

Design features

The TY-90 missile utilizes an infrared (IR) homing guidance system equipped with a dual-band seeker that integrates IR and ultraviolet (UV) detection to improve discrimination against helicopter rotor heat signatures in cluttered environments, such as low-altitude backgrounds with ground heat sources. This configuration allows for better rejection of countermeasures like flares by analyzing spectral differences in target emissions. An alternative imaging infrared (ImIR) seeker variant employs a focal plane array for enhanced resolution and resistance to decoys, enabling precise target tracking even in all-aspect engagements. Aerodynamically, the features a compact measuring 1.95 in length and 0.09 in diameter, incorporating non-folding control surfaces in a canard configuration that supports high maneuverability with up to 20 g overload, facilitating rapid turns to intercept evasive rotary-wing targets. is driven by a solid-fuel motor that propels the to speeds exceeding Mach 2, providing an effective engagement envelope from 0.5 to 9 kilometers against subsonic targets such as helicopters, tailored for short-range, low-altitude scenarios where helicopters operate. The consists of a 3 kg high-explosive fragmentation charge with a proximity fuse and an engagement radius of approximately 4 meters, specifically engineered to sever rotor blades or disable vital components upon a single impact, maximizing lethality against low-speed, agile threats. Advanced in the further bolsters resistance by prioritizing true targets over heat traps or ground clutter.

Development timeline

The TY-90 missile program was initiated in the late 1990s by the China Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC) as the first dedicated for dogfights, utilizing advanced guidance technology similar to that in the QW-2 man-portable air-defense system, without direct derivation. The export-designated TY-90 made its public debut at the 1998 Zhuhai Airshow, highlighting its role in rotary-wing combat. In 2004, at the 5th Airshow, the ground-launched DY-90 variant was unveiled, adapting the TY-90 airframe with an optional rocket booster for surface-to-air applications and demonstrating early integration potential for mobile air defense. The domestic PL-90 version entered service with (PLAGF) helicopter units in 2006, marking initial operational deployment for anti-helicopter roles. Post-2004 efforts included development of a navalized surface-to-air variant using the FLS-1 with guidance, but it had not achieved service entry by 2008 due to preferences for more advanced seeker technologies. Subsequent refinements incorporated imaging (ImIR) seekers in later models to enhance target discrimination against low-signature threats. By the 2010s, production scaled up under for ground-based systems like the Yitian, positioning the TY-90 family for export markets, with confirmed deliveries such as to in 2024. In 2025, exports continued with deliveries of Z-10ME helicopters armed with TY-90 missiles to in July, and formal induction in August; additionally, in October 2025, unveiled the Yitian system mounted on the Yema 4×4 vehicle for enhanced light air defense mobility.

Variants

Air-launched TY-90

The air-launched TY-90 serves as the original baseline variant of the , developed exclusively for arming Chinese attack helicopters in air-to-air combat scenarios. It equips platforms such as the Z-10 and Z-19, enabling close-range engagements against enemy rotary-wing aircraft during low-altitude operations. This design originated in the late 1990s to address the need for dedicated helicopter armament against aerial threats. Integration of the TY-90 occurs via rail mounts on helicopter hardpoints, allowing for seamless compatibility with platforms like the Z-10 and Z-19. The missile features fire-and-forget capability through its all-aspect infrared homing guidance system, which includes off-boresight targeting up to 60 degrees and support for helmet-mounted sight designation. Powered by a solid-propellant rocket motor, it achieves speeds exceeding Mach 2 and can maneuver at up to 20g overloads, making it suitable for dynamic dogfight environments. In operational doctrine, the TY-90 prioritizes high single-shot kill probability, exceeding 80% against typical targets at ranges from 500 meters to 6 kilometers. Its 3 kg high-explosive , paired with a , ensures effective lethality in cluttered, low-altitude conditions, with an engagement radius of approximately 4 meters. This focus enhances the survivability of PLA attack helicopters in contested airspace dominated by opposing rotary-wing assets.

Ground-launched DY-90

The DY-90 is the surface-to-air variant of the , adapted specifically for ground-based launch in roles. Developed by North Industries Corporation (), it was first publicly unveiled at the 5th Zhuhai Airshow in 2004 as a man-portable or vehicle-integrated system optimized for engaging low-altitude threats. Key modifications from the baseline TY-90 include the addition of a solid-fuel rocket booster to enable vertical or inclined ground launches from sealed canisters or tubes, extending operational range while accommodating the missile's compact dimensions of 1.86 meters in length and 0.09 meters in diameter. The is retained but enhanced with improved for operation in near-ground environments characterized by strong and clutter, allowing effective target discrimination against backgrounds like terrain or urban settings. This adaptation supports engagement, leveraging the original missile's thrust-vectoring control nozzles for high maneuverability up to 20g overloads. The DY-90 achieves an effective engagement envelope of 500 meters to 6 kilometers in range and up to 6 kilometers in altitude, with a maximum speed exceeding Mach 2, making it suitable for intercepting helicopters, drones, and low-flying in cluttered low-altitude scenarios. It carries a 3-kilogram high-explosive fragmentation with an expanding rod design and proximity fuze, providing a 5-meter for reliable single-shot kill probabilities over 80 percent against . Early testing of the variant occurred in the early , focusing on integration with fire control radars like the AF902 for rapid acquisition and launch. Launchers for the DY-90 emphasize mobility and simplicity, including man-portable tube configurations for use or vehicle-mounted racks such as those on 4x4 platforms, typically accommodating four ready-to-fire missiles in a cold-launch setup to minimize signatures. Towed variants on two-wheeled trailers provide semi-mobile options for platoon-level defense, often paired with optoelectronic or sensors for 360-degree coverage. These adaptations derive from the air-launched TY-90's lightweight 20-kilogram design, ensuring compatibility across diverse ground platforms without requiring extensive infrastructure.

SG-II ADS

The SG-II Air Defense System (ADS), known in Chinese as Shengong-II (神弓-II), represents an early towed configuration for static , utilizing DY-90 missiles adapted from the original air-launched TY-90. This system integrates a quadruple rail launcher mounted on a trailer, which is towed by a standard military truck such as the Dongfeng EQ240, enabling relatively straightforward deployment at fixed or semi-fixed positions. It was publicly unveiled at the 2004 Airshow, marking the debut of a ground-based application for the TY-90 family in a towed format. Key components include an electro-optical search and track (EOST) pod for passive and designation, paired with the four DY-90 missiles ready for launch. The EOST employs imaging and ranging to detect and track low-altitude threats without relying on active emissions, facilitating covert operations. The launcher design allows for manual or semi-automated reloading in the field, emphasizing simplicity for rapid setup at forward operating locations. Primarily intended for protecting forward bases and static installations, the SG-II provides point-defense against low-flying , particularly helicopters, with engagement ranges up to approximately 6 kilometers. Its 360-degree coverage is achieved through a manually traversable mount, enabling all-aspect intercepts in cluttered environments where systems might be less effective. The DY-90 missile, serving as the core effector, retains the guidance of its airborne counterpart for reliable terminal acquisition. Production of the SG-II ADS has been limited, with deployments confined to select units of the (PLAGF) for specialized low-level air defense roles. It has not achieved widespread adoption or export success, overshadowed by subsequent more mobile variants in China's air defense inventory.

Type 92 Yitian

The Type 92 Yitian is a system designed for units, providing mobile protection against low-flying and helicopters during operations on the move. Mounted on the 6x6 armored personnel carrier chassis, it inherits the base vehicle's amphibious capabilities, allowing it to ford water obstacles up to 1.1 meters deep at speeds of 6-8 km/h while maintaining armored protection for the crew. This wheeled platform enhances the system's deployability with armored forces, offering a combat weight of approximately 15-16 tons and a top road speed of 85 km/h, with an operational range exceeding 500 km. Developed by North Industries Corporation (), the Type 92 Yitian represents an evolution from earlier unarmored mobile systems, integrating into a robust, mechanized escort role. The primary armament consists of eight DY-90 surface-to-air missiles, which are ground-launched adaptations of the TY-90 infrared-homing missile originally designed for air-to-air engagements from helicopters. These missiles provide an engagement envelope from 300 meters to 6 km in range and 15 meters to 4 km in altitude, optimized for single-shot lethality against rotorcraft with a 3 kg high-explosive fragmentation warhead. A supplementary QJC-88 12.7 mm heavy machine gun offers close-range defense against drones and slow-moving targets. The launchers are arranged in two quad pods on a rotatable turret, allowing 360-degree coverage and rapid reload from internal storage. This configuration enables the system to engage multiple threats sequentially, supporting armored columns by neutralizing aerial ambushes in real-time. Sensor integration includes a foldable three-dimensional X-band search and tracking with an 8 km detection range for low-altitude targets, complemented by an turret (EOST) featuring day/night TV cameras, imagers, and a for passive acquisition up to 10-12 km. This all-weather setup allows independent operation in environments where emissions must be minimized, with the EOST providing stabilized targeting for manual overrides. The processes data from both sensors to guide missiles via , achieving hit probabilities exceeding 80% against maneuvering helicopters under optimal conditions. First publicly revealed in 2005, the Type 92 Yitian entered service with the to fulfill requirements for divisional-level air defense in mechanized brigades. Its export variant, marketed as the Tianlong-6, achieved its inaugural foreign sale to in 2010, where it bolsters border defense against low-altitude incursions. The system's emphasis on mobility and integration with armored formations distinguishes it as a key asset for escorting convoys through contested , prioritizing rapid response over extended-range engagements.

Yitian-L

The Yitian-L is an export-oriented light variant of the Yitian short-range air defense system, optimized for mobility on a Dongfeng 4x4 tactical . It is armed with four DY-90 missiles, which are ground-launched adaptations of the TY-90 infrared-homing , housed in vertical launch containers for rapid deployment against low-altitude threats. The system integrates a 3D X-band for detecting, tracking, and identifying multiple aerial targets simultaneously, enhancing situational awareness in dynamic environments. Key features include an advanced computerized supporting both direct and indirect firing modes, along with (IFF) technology for reduced risk of . The platform offers modular elements for quick setup and is designed for two-person operation, making it suitable for forward-deployed units requiring minimal logistical support; it has been marketed internationally since the as a cost-effective solution for countering drones and helicopters. Protective measures encompass armor plating, nuclear-biological-chemical () defense, smoke grenade launchers, and an system to ensure operational continuity in contested areas. This variant improves upon the baseline Yitian design, derived from the Type 92 Yitian, with enhanced infrared counter-countermeasures (IRCCM) for better resistance to decoys and jamming. In June 2024, the Yitian-L was acquired by the Mauritanian Army to bolster defenses against low-flying , helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, and cruise missiles, marking a significant upgrade to the nation's aerial protection capabilities in regional security operations.

SWS-2

The SWS-2 is a hybrid gun-missile air defense system developed by , mounted on the VN-1 (IFV) 8x8 chassis to provide mobile, combined-arms protection. It integrates a single-barrel 35 mm revolver cannon capable of firing up to 1,100 rounds per minute with programmable airburst ammunition, alongside four ready-to-fire DY-90 surface-to-air missiles housed in vertical launch containers on the turret. This configuration allows simultaneous engagement of multiple low-altitude threats, with the cannon effective against targets up to 4 km in range and the missiles extending coverage to 6 km. The system features an active phased-array radar for 360-degree surveillance and target acquisition out to 18 km, complemented by an (EOST) that includes and daylight imagers for precise fire control in all weather conditions. These sensors enable the detection and tracking of up to 12 simultaneous threats, including small drones and cruise missiles, with automated cueing for rapid response. The turret is remotely operated from the hull, enhancing crew safety during operations. NORINCO has promoted the SWS-2 internationally since its public debut at in 2016, positioning it as a cost-effective solution for IFV-based in export markets, particularly in . The DY-90 missiles integrated into the SWS-2 belong to the ground-launched variant of the TY-90 family, optimized for against and unmanned aerial vehicles. Designed primarily for close-in protection of mechanized forces, the system counters drones, helicopters, and low-flying , offering layered defense without relying on external support.

Yitian on Yema 4×4

The Yitian on Yema 4×4 is a lightweight, mobile (SHORAD) system developed by (NORINCO), integrating modified ground-launched TY-90 missiles onto a Yema 4×4 armored chassis. This platform features an armored compartment for a two-person team—a driver and an operator—equipped with an intuitive joystick-based interface for rapid deployment and engagement. The system mounts 4 to 8 ready-to-fire missile launchers, adapted from the air-launched TY-90 and ground-launched DY-90 variants, enabling omnidirectional coverage without the need for a dedicated turret. Optimized primarily for countering modern aerial threats such as drones, low- and ultra-low-altitude helicopters, and high-altitude munitions, the Yitian employs infrared-homing TY-90 missiles with a 3 kg high-explosive , achieving capability at speeds up to Mach 2. Its engagement envelope extends from a minimum range of 500 meters to a maximum of 6 kilometers horizontally and up to 4 kilometers in altitude, with effective interception of targets traveling at speeds exceeding 400 m/s. The system's sensors include a foldable 3D X-band for active detection and tracking, complemented by a passive electro-optical suite featuring a thermal imager (), daylight optical sight, and , allowing seamless switching between passive and active modes to minimize emissions in contested environments. Unveiled in October 2025 at a major defense exhibition, the Yitian on Yema 4×4 is positioned as a cost-effective alternative to heavier SHORAD platforms, with an estimated unit price of USD 2–4 million, emphasizing high mobility across complex terrain and reduced training requirements for operators. This variant evolves from the earlier Yitian-L family by prioritizing compactness and drone-centric interception in littoral and expeditionary operations. A naval version of the TY-90 has been developed for ship-based air defense, utilizing the FLS-1 (Front Launch System-1) launcher. This adaptation retains the guidance and capability of the baseline missile, enabling close-range protection against low-altitude threats such as helicopters and anti-ship missiles from naval platforms.

Operators

People's Republic of China

The TY-90 missile serves as a key component of the (PLAGF) Army Aviation's air defense capabilities, primarily integrated on the Z-10 attack helicopter since its entry into service in late 2010. Equipped with PL/TY-90 air-to-air missiles, the Z-10 enables helicopter units to engage low-flying threats in and anti-helicopter roles, with the operating up to 10 aviation brigades each fielding around 20 such platforms by 2016. Deliveries of upgraded Z-10K variants continue for the (PLAAF), enhancing joint aviation operations across both services. Ground-based variants of the TY-90 are deployed within PLAGF divisions to provide organic against low-altitude aircraft and helicopters. The Type 92 Yitian system, mounted on the wheeled armored personnel carrier, equips air defense battalions in units such as the 113th Division of the former 38th Group , featuring quad launchers for rapid engagement within divisional maneuver elements. The PGL-12 self-propelled anti-aircraft system, the domestic counterpart to the SWS-2, incorporates up to four TY-90 missiles alongside a 35 mm , bolstering mechanized forces' ability to counter aerial incursions during advances or defensive postures. These systems are incorporated into PLAGF training regimens and operational doctrine to address low-level aerial threats, emphasizing rapid reaction and integration with maneuver units in simulated combat scenarios. As of 2025, the PLA maintains an inventory supporting widespread adoption across aviation and ground forces, with the TY-90's versatility enabling its use in diverse tactical environments from border patrols to high-intensity conflicts.

Export operators

The TY-90 missile system has seen limited but notable exports through its ground-launched variants, primarily under NORINCO's marketing as affordable short-range air defense solutions. In 2010, became the first confirmed foreign customer, acquiring the Tianlong-6 system, an export designation for the Type 92 Yitian vehicle-mounted variant equipped with eight TY-90-derived missiles for army air defense against low-altitude threats. This acquisition marked NORINCO's initial success in international sales of the platform, integrating the infrared-guided missiles onto 6x6 armored chassis for enhanced mobility in Southeast Asian terrain. More recently, in mid-2024, Mauritania acquired Yitian-L systems, a lighter 4x4 variant adapted from the TY-90 family for counter-unmanned aerial vehicle operations. These systems feature vertical launchers carrying four missiles each, mounted on Dongfeng tactical vehicles, and are designed to neutralize drones, helicopters, and low-flying with the missile's 6 km engagement range and advanced fire control including X-band and IFF capabilities. The acquisition bolsters 's defenses against regional insurgent drone threats in the , reflecting growing demand for cost-effective, mobile air defense in African militaries. NORINCO has actively promoted TY-90-based systems at international defense exhibitions, emphasizing their modularity and low acquisition costs—estimated at USD 2–4 million per unit—to attract budget-conscious buyers. As of , the company has reported potential interest from several African and Asian nations, including , , , , and , where the systems are pitched for counter-drone and low-altitude protection amid rising asymmetric threats. These marketing efforts highlight the platform's adaptability for export markets seeking alternatives to Western systems. Export variants of the TY-90 are typically customized for local integration, such as chassis adaptations and compatibility with existing command networks, to meet recipient nations' operational needs without altering core missile performance. A UN experts' report documented the operational use of a Yitian system by (M23) rebels in the in October 2024 to shoot down a government helicopter, though direct transfers remain unverified.

Technical specifications

Physical characteristics

The TY-90 , designed primarily for air-to-air engagements from helicopters, has a compact form factor suited to rotary-wing platforms. It measures 1.86 meters in with a body of 0.09 meters and a launch of 20 s. The carries a 3 high-explosive rod with expanding rods, optimized to sever systems, and a proximity and . In its DY-90 surface-to-air configuration, the missile retains the core dimensions and warhead of the TY-90 but incorporates an additional solid-fuel booster stage for vertical ground launches from tube-based systems, with a launch of 20 kilograms. The DY-90 is typically deployed from 90 mm launch tubes in man-portable or vehicle-mounted setups, ensuring compatibility with applications.

Performance and guidance

The TY-90 missile family demonstrates high performance tailored for short-range engagements against low-flying threats such as helicopters and low-altitude . It achieves speeds exceeding Mach 2, allowing for quick intercepts in dynamic combat scenarios. The effective engagement range varies by launch platform: 0.5–8 km for air-launched variants and up to 6 km for ground-launched configurations, with minimum engagement distances starting at 500 meters. Maneuverability is supported by a maximum overload of 20 g, enabling all-aspect attacks on maneuvering targets, including front and rear hemispheres, with a single-shot kill probability greater than 80% against helicopters. Guidance is provided by a passive system, featuring an seeker with a ±30° for off-boresight targeting up to 60°. Standard variants use a dual-band seeker combining mid-wave and sensors for improved and discrimination in cluttered environments, while advanced models incorporate imaging for enhanced resolution. The system includes a digital processor that resists ground clutter and heat traps, providing (ECCM) against flares and decoys to maintain lock-on effectiveness. Operational limits support versatility across conditions, with effectiveness in day/night operations and low-altitude profiles down to 15 meters, including urban or mountainous terrain with intense clutter. The infrared guidance enables all-weather performance to the extent permitted by atmospheric conditions, prioritizing stealthy, emission-free homing to minimize detection during launch and flight.

References

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  23. https://en.topwar.ru/188530-zenitnye-raketno-pushechnye-kompleksy-pgl-12-i-sws-2-dlja-noak-i-na-jeksport.html
  24. https://defence-blog.com/china-develops-new-lightweight-air-defense-vehicle/
  25. https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/security/new-details-emerge-on-plas-z-10-attack-helicopter
  26. https://www.ausairpower.net/APA-PLA-Div-ADS.html
  27. https://www.facebook.com/100063746941848/posts/a-new-un-experts-report-on-drc-notes-on-25-october-2024-a-short-range-air-defenc/1106636421471246/
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