Iran reportedly set to receive Chinese-made air defense systems within weeks

Yesterday 12:05

By: Azzat Manal

Iran reportedly set to receive Chinese-made air defense systems within weeks

Iran is reportedly preparing to receive its first shipment of Chinese-made shoulder-launched air defense systems within the coming weeks, according to sources cited by Reuters, in what could represent a significant effort by Tehran to strengthen its short-range air defense capabilities.

The reported agreement is estimated to be worth between $60 million and $70 million and could involve the delivery of between 300 and 400 portable air defense systems. The shipment is said to include Chinese-produced QW-12 and FN-16 missiles.

According to the sources, the deal was reportedly signed with Chongqing Baoshang International Investment, a Hong Kong-based company that allegedly acted as an intermediary between Iranian officials and the Chinese supplier.

The potential delivery would significantly expand Iran's inventory of short-range air defense equipment and could further highlight the growing military relationship between Tehran and Beijing. The reported arrangement comes amid continued regional tensions and Iran's efforts to reinforce its defensive capabilities.

However, the sources cautioned that the final quantities, delivery schedules and other details of the agreement could still change. Under a plan reportedly discussed by the parties, the initial shipments would leave Urumqi in western China and pass through Pakistan before reaching Iran. The exact method of transportation has not been confirmed.

Pakistan's military public relations office strongly rejected reports suggesting that Islamabad was involved in supplying Chinese air defense weapons to Iran, describing such claims as completely fabricated and false.

Two Western intelligence sources and an Iranian official reportedly said that Tehran had also explored the use of land routes to transport Chinese military supplies and dual-use components more discreetly, potentially reducing the risk of disruption.

The reported agreement comes as Iran seeks to strengthen its military capabilities following heightened tensions in the region. Reuters has also previously reported that Tehran was in discussions with China over a separate potential agreement involving anti-ship cruise missiles.

The reports have not been independently confirmed, and the precise details of any future arms deliveries remain subject to change. If implemented, however, the deal could mark another step in the deepening defense ties between Iran and China.