MLRS
PHL-16
The PHL-16, also called PCL-191, is a Chinese truck-mounted long-range rocket launcher made by NORINCO, in PLA service from about 2021. It carries eight 370 mm rockets with a reported range of up to 350 km.
China|NORINCOOverview
The PHL-16 appeared in parades around 2019 to 2021 and is known in some sources as the PCL-191. It is mounted on a Wanshan WS2400 8×8 truck and carries eight 370 mm rockets, with a crew of four and an estimated combat weight of about 40 tonnes. The guided rockets are reported to reach 350 km, and some sources list 500 km versions. Reports differ over whether the modular launch box can also take 750 mm tactical missile modules.
The system entered People’s Liberation Army Army service from about 2021, assigned to the Eastern Theater Command. Chinese state media showed the PCL-191 in exercises near Taiwan in 2022. A crane-equipped reload vehicle is reported to accompany the launcher. The PHL-16 is not known to have been exported, and China’s PLA Ground Force is the only confirmed operator. NORINCO markets other rocket systems, such as the AR-3, SR-5 and A100, to customers in the Middle East and Asia.
Key Specifications
Variants
The PHL-03 is the earlier Chinese 300 mm heavy rocket launcher that preceded the PHL-16.
The PHL-16 is the 370 mm, eight-rocket long-range launcher on an 8×8 truck with a reported 350 km range.
The PCL-191 is the alternative designation used for the PHL-16 in some sources.
Operators
ChinaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the range of the PHL-16?
The PHL-16 has a reported range of up to 350 km with its 370 mm guided rockets. Some sources list versions reaching 500 km, so figures vary.
Is the PHL-16 the same as the PCL-191?
Yes, the PCL-191 is the name used in some sources for the PHL-16. Both refer to the NORINCO 370 mm truck-mounted long-range rocket launcher.
PHL-16 vs HIMARS: which is better?
The PHL-16 outranges HIMARS on paper. The PHL-16 carries eight 370 mm rockets with a reported 350 km range, while HIMARS carries six standard rockets or one ATACMS missile and is lighter and more mobile.
Does China use the PHL-16 near Taiwan?
China’s PCL-191 was shown in exercises near Taiwan in 2022, according to Chinese state media. The system serves with the Eastern Theater Command.
Which countries have the PHL-16?
China is the only confirmed operator of the PHL-16. The system is not known to have been exported.
How many rockets does the PHL-16 carry?
The PHL-16 carries eight 370 mm rockets. A reload vehicle with a crane reportedly supports each launcher.