Air-defense missile scientist dies at 90

Shen Zhongfang, one of China's foremost researchers in air-defense missile technology, died in Beijing on Saturday at the age of 90.

Born in August 1934 in Shanghai, Shen embarked on his journey in aerospace engineering in 1953 when he was admitted to the Beijing Institute of Aeronautics, now known as Beihang University, to study aircraft design. After graduating in 1958, he was assigned to the Second Branch of the Ministry of National Defense's Fifth Academy, which is now the Second Academy of China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp.

Shen spent his entire career at the Second Academy, rising through the ranks to become its deputy president and a top-ranking project manager before retiring in 2010.In 1992, he was appointed project manager for China's third-generation air-defense missile system, later named the HQ-9. Under his leadership, the HQ-9 became one of the world's top air-defense missiles, incorporating many world-class technologies.

In addition to the HQ-9, Shen also managed the development of two types of short-range ballistic missiles that were successfully exported to foreign countries.

Throughout his career, Shen received numerous national honors and awards in recognition of his significant contributions to China's defense capabilities. Last year he was named one of the "Figures Moving China", a prestigious title celebrating those who have had a profound impact on the nation.