New Delhi, Oct 25: China is rapidly building a new air defence complex on the eastern bank of Pangong Lake in Tibet, about 110 km from one of the 2020 border standoff points.
Satellite images show a new Chinese air defence complex comprising command and control buildings, barracks, vehicle sheds, ammunition storage and radar sites.
Experts say it is being built to accommodate the Transporter Erector Launcher (TEL) rocket, which carries and launches missiles. It is said to be capable of protecting China's long-range HQ-9 surface-to-air missile system.
China's new air defense complex was first spotted by researchers at US-based geo-intelligence firm Allsource Analysis in Garh County, 65 km from the Line of Actual Control. It is opposite India's recently upgraded Neoma airport.
Satellite photos obtained by US-based space intelligence company Vantor show the surface of missile launch bays. Each one is large enough to accommodate two vehicles.
The initial phase of construction of a second air defense complex near Pangong Lake was identified by geospatial researcher Damian Simon in late July. But the nature of the closed missile launch sites was not known at the time.
ASA analysts have identified the infrastructure. It is believed to be located to connect the HQ-9 air defense system with its command system. Infrastructure work near Pangong Lake is still under construction.