QW-1 Vanguard - FLS-1

FLS-1

Naval version of QW-3 with launcher looks very similar to that of RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile externally. Although many Chinese media sources claim that it is the equivalent of RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile, with the total weight less than a ton (a single launcher containing missiles). When QW-3 missiles are used, the FLS-1 system actually lacks the fire-and-forget capability of the RAM. However, the FLS-1 system can also be used to deploy the infrared guided TY-90, and thus becoming a fire-and-forget capable SAM system like American RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile. The fire control system includes radar and electro-optics, that can be either dedicated or utilizing the existing systems on board the naval vessel. The FLS-1 system with QW-3 missiles has been retrofitted to fast attack craft of the PLAN, but FLS-1 system with TY-90 has not entered services (as of 2008) despite successfully completing acceptance tests and receiving state certification.

Although naval versions of other members of QW family have been successfully developed, they were not accepted into service with the exception of FLS-1. Instead, the Chinese deploy other QW missiles in the similar way United States Navy deploys FIM-92 Stinger missiles on board ships: sailors and marines on board ships were organized into MANPAD Gunnery Detachment to station on board ships, and fire the missile like the way the missiles are shoulder-fired on land.