China tests drones, new rocket launcher near disputed India border area
- Official media reports say new technology deployed to meet challenges of high-altitude warfare
- Helicopter pads built at Lhasa military hospital to cut time to transport wounded
The rocket launcher was tested at “an average altitude of more than 4,000 metres (13,100 feet)” in a live-fire drill by a unit from the 77th Group Army under the PLA’s Western Theatre Command, according to a report on China Central Television on Sunday.
Shanghai-based news site Eastday.com said the rocket launcher was the new and lighter Type-11 93mm, which could fire various types of shells.
“The Type-11 93mm infantry rocket launcher has a larger calibre than the previous 80mm rocket launcher. With a maximum range of 850 metres and better multi-purpose ammunition, the rocket launcher can provide important and flexible backup firepower for light infantry units,” the report said.
The Tibet military command’s official social media account also announced on Wednesday that helipads had been built at its general hospital in the regional capital Lhasa, and the facility was ready to take wounded flown in on helicopters.