 Like the HJ-8, the HJ-9 utilizes a disposable container/launching tube, but the one for HJ-9 is heavier, weighing because HJ-9 is larger than HJ-8.The diameter of the HJ-9 is and the missile is compatible with a variety of thermal imaging sights.In 2005, Norinco revealed in various public events that another version of HJ-9, the HJ-9A was already in service with Chinese armed forces, and this version used semi-active millimetre wave radar guidance.