Uzbekistan Air Defense Systems: FM-90 and KS-1C Insights
**Uzbekistan is making notable strides in enhancing its air defense capabilities with the recent integration of Chinese-made FM-90 and KS-1C systems. On February 21, 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev toured the Innovative Technologies Center of the Defense Industry Agency to evaluate advancements in military technology and production capabilities. This visit highlights the government’s commitment to modernizing the defense sector through technological innovations and fostering a robust local defense industry that can effectively address national security challenges.**
Reports indicate that the acquisition of the FM-90 and KS-1C systems marks a significant shift in Uzbekistan’s defense procurement strategy. Traditionally reliant on Soviet and later Russian military equipment, Uzbekistan is increasingly looking towards China for military cooperation. This change reflects a broader trend in diversifying defense partnerships to enhance national security.
During his visit, President Mirziyoyev emphasized the need to enhance the competitiveness of Uzbekistan’s defense sector by developing new products and integrating advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and robotics. The Innovative Technologies Center is currently producing around 80 types of military and dual-use equipment, while also supporting cutting-edge research projects aimed at advancing defense industry technology.
Uzbekistan is also expanding its international presence in the defense sector. At the IDEX 2025 Fair held in Abu Dhabi, the country showcased over 100 models of domestically produced military equipment, including the ‘Arslan 8×8’ and ‘Arslan 6×6’ armored vehicles, as well as the ‘Tofon’ towed howitzer, which garnered significant interest from foreign partners.
The KS-1C medium and long-range air defense system, an upgraded version of the HQ-12, is expected to bolster Uzbekistan’s air defense capabilities against emerging threats. This system can intercept targets at altitudes ranging from 500 meters to 25 kilometers, with a range of 5 to 50 kilometers. Equipped with semi-active radar guidance and an H-200 passive phased array radar, the KS-1C can track multiple targets simultaneously at a distance of 70 kilometers.
The missile, which weighs 900 kg and carries a 100 kg warhead, can reach speeds of up to 1,200 m/s, equivalent to approximately Mach 3. This capability makes it effective against various aerial threats, including fighter jets, helicopters, and cruise missiles.
The FM-90, the export variant of the HQ-7B, is designed for short-range air defense, targeting low-altitude threats. Based on the French Crotale missile system, the FM-90 utilizes infrared or command guidance and is powered by a solid-fuel rocket motor, enabling high-speed engagements. This system has an operational range of 8 to 15 kilometers and is designed to counter fast-moving and agile targets, including fighter aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The integration of both the FM-90 and KS-1C systems will significantly enhance Uzbekistan’s air defense capabilities, allowing for a more robust response to various air threats. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions regarding Uzbekistan’s potential procurement of transport aircraft to further strengthen its military capabilities.
