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Chinese copy of Russia's Tor air defense system seen in Algerian colors
Photographs circulating on Chinese social media show an HQ-17 short-range air-defense vehicle in camouflage matching Algerian military equipment, with Chinese sources claiming it is destined for Algeria. Neither Algeria nor manufacturer CASIC has confirmed a sale, and the quantity and delivery date remain unknown, so the imagery indicates a possible acquisition rather than proven operational service. Developed from Russia's Tor-M1 concept, the mobile system carries its own radar and eight missiles and is designed to engage aircraft, helicopters, drones, cruise missiles, guided bombs, and air-to-surface weapons.