The early Type 052s are commonly associated with the YJ-83, but its stated 1998 service date falls four years after the first destroyer entered service. The likely explanation is an initial YJ-8 fit followed by a relatively quick upgrade, although the original fit remains uncertain here. The YJ-83 became a widely used Chinese anti-ship weapon, comparable to Harpoon in its ubiquity and employment. HQ-7 missiles provided the ships' short-range air defence.
Notable Point · 15:19-16:36
The Type 052's early missile fit remains uncertain
The YJ-83's service date suggests the first Type 052s initially carried the earlier YJ-8 before an upgrade.