The recent acquisition of new 4×4 armored vehicles by the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) Hong Kong Garrison has sparked discussions and raised concerns regarding the region’s security landscape. The introduction of the Dongfeng Mengshi CSK181, PCP001 fire-support vehicles, Red Arrow 10 launch vehicles, among others, during the commencement of 2024 training and combat drills, signifies a strategic move by China in reinforcing its military presence in Hong Kong. However, the introduction of these highly capable military assets into Hong Kong raises questions and tensions, given the city’s unique political status and historical background. On Jan. 1st, 2024, at the training ground in the Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks of the PLA Hong Kong Garrison, the army, naval and air forces started the drill, heading to their respective positions. The army’s wheeled vehicles drove to the training field, naval guided-missile frigate Suqian and other vessels set sail, and air force helicopters took off.
According to publicly released video footage by China Central Television (CCTV), these additions to the Garrison’s arsenal demonstrate a notable upgrade in capabilities. the resemblance of certain vehicles to American military designs, such as the Dongfeng Mengshi’s similarity to the U.S tactical vehicle, raises questions about the influence and strategic alignment of China’s military developments. Dongfeng Mengshi was originally a family of 4×4 MRAP/off-road vehicles developed by Dongfeng Motor Group. Early generations of the vehicle are built with imported Hummer H1 chassis, while later generations of the vehicles are of indigenous design. Dongfeng Mengshi generally follows the trend of American military requirements. For example, CSK-141 is the Chinese equivalent of an armor-plated reinforced Humvee, while CSK-181 is the Chinese equivalent of the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle.
Dongfeng CSK-181 is the new generation of light tactical vehicle developed by Dongfeng for the People’s Liberation Army. CSK-181 is based on Dongfeng CSK-141 with one driver, one weapon station operator as co-driver with eight infantry seats. The variant has improved satellite communication capability, longer range night-vision cameras and most importantly, Mine-Resistant Ambush Protection capability. All CSK-181 are equipped with a remote-controlled turret, which can be mounted with machine guns, anti-tank missile and grenade launchers. The vehicle is in service as of 2020. Red Arrow 10 launch vehicle (CTL-181A ATMC) is a CSK-181 based ATGM carrier. Fitted with sensors and HJ-10 anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). It has a tandem high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead, that may penetrate 1,400 mm (55 in) of conventional steel armour protected by explosive reactive armour with maximum range is 10 km (6.2 mi).
Moreover, the PCP001, based on the Dongfeng EQ2050 4×4 light tactical vehicle, is outfitted with the 82 mm automatic mortar Type 81, offering lethal firepower and mobility, particularly suited for swift offensive maneuvers. Type 81 82 mm automatic mortar is a copy of the 2B9 Vasilek (Cornflower). The weapon has a practical rate of fire of 100-120 rounds per minute and a technical rate of fire of 170 rounds per minute. The mortar features a muzzle velocity of 270-272 m/s and a range of some 4,300 m. The mortar system is fed with an magazine. The manufacturer claims that the ATV weighs some 2.3 t and has a payload capacity of 1.2 t. The vehicle is 4.7 m long, 2.1 m wide and 1.75 m high. The EQ-2050 is powered by a 150-hp Cummins EQB150-20 diesel engine, producing a maximum speed of 120 km/h and a range of 500 km.
