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A number of different guided munitions systems of russian origin have been obtained by the PLA. It can be expected that indigenous production of many of these types is currently underway. All of these systems use semi-active laser homing, that is, they require a laser spot to be maintained on the target and observed by the munition for several seconds before impact. This requirement makes the use of these weapons very complicated. Communications be emplaced between the launcher and the designator, and correct laser codes set on both the designator and the munition. Then the munition must be propelled to an area very near the target, within about 1000m, as these munitions have a limited ability to manuever in flight. Then the designator must project a laser spot steadily on the target for the final 10-30 seconds of flight at an angle that the munition can see. If all these conditions are met the munitions have a hit percentage in excess of 90 percent. Anti-tank, bunker, and ship missions are are suitable to these weapons.
The russian firm KBP Instruments is known to have transfered production rights and equipment to Norinco for the manufacture of Krasnopol and Krasnopol-M munitions.
Krasnopol: A 152mm munition known to be in use by Type 66 and Type 83 howitzers. Range 3,000-22,000m
Krasnopol-M: A 155mm munition may be used in WA 021 and Type 88 howitzers. Range 17,000m
Santimeter: 152mm munition with advanced guidance adapted for multiple rounds to be designated by one laser. Known to be used by Type 66 and 83 howitzers. Range 5,000-18,000m
Kitolov-2M: 122mm projectile may be used with Type 83, Type 85, and Type 89 howitzers. Range 12,000m
Kitolov-2: 120mm projectile for use in 120mm mortars. Range 9,000m
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