Russian Mobile Air Defense Teams Likely Armed with Chinese QW-18/19 MANPADS

Russian mobile air defense teams are likely armed with Chinese QW-18/19 man-portable air defense systems.

This is evidenced by footage from Russian television published by X user TheDeadDistrict.

The system was shown during an exercise with a mobile air defense team from Russia’s 51st Air Defense Division in the Rostov region.

During a conversation with the servicemen, the system was referred to as “Iva.” However, it does not resemble any MANPADS currently in Russian service.

The weapon’s appearance suggests similarities to the Iranian Misagh-3 and Chinese QW-18A/QW-19 MANPADS.

A detailed analysis of the photo may indicate greater similarity to the Chinese MANPADS due to the presence of an additional element in the launcher’s nose section.

This protruding element is absent from available photos of the Iranian Misagh-3. These could be newer versions of the system; however, no photos show this particular placement of the element.

It is difficult to determine the exact model of the Chinese system — QW-18 or QW-19. The MANPADS may also be supplied through Iran, as the country procures Chinese weapons, including MANPADS.

In July 2026, it was reported that Iran’s deal with China includes the delivery of up to 400 MANPADS, including QW-12 and FN-16 systems. The order is estimated to be worth $60–70 million.

In addition, Iran’s Misagh systems are based on Chinese QW-series MANPADS. Pakistan also produces similar systems under the designation Anza-2.

The use of foreign-made MANPADS may indicate that Russia’s defense industry is unable to meet the military’s demand and produce such systems in sufficient quantities.

Militarnyi previously reported that Ukraine had received confirmation that China was supplying weapons to the Russian Federation. This includes propellant and artillery systems.

Ukrainian intelligence agencies believe Russian-Chinese military cooperation also includes producing Chinese weapons in Russia.