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Iran to receive hundreds of Chinese air-defense missiles within weeks: sources

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Unnamed sources Context piece
  • Iran is set to receive hundreds of Chinese-made shoulder-fired air-defense missile systems within weeks, according to sources.
  • The deal, valued at $60-70 million, is one of Iran's largest efforts to bolster short-range air defenses since the war with the U.S. and Israel began.
  • China denies the reports, stating it plays a role in promoting peace, while Iran seeks to rearm after months of conflict.

Iran is expected to receive its first shipment of up to 400 Chinese-made shoulder-fired air-defense missile launchers within weeks, three sources familiar with the deal told Reuters. This acquisition represents one of Tehran's most significant known efforts to strengthen its short-range air defenses since the outbreak of its war with the United States and Israel.

The contract, valued between $60 million and $70 million, includes 300 to 400 man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), specifically Chinese-made QW-12 and FN-16 missiles. The deal was reportedly signed with Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, a Hong Kong-based company acting as an intermediary. The sources requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the information. Iran's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

China's Foreign Ministry has denied the reports, stating, "The relevant reports are completely groundless. China has consistently played a role in promoting peace and ending the conflict." Zhong Qing Bao Shang Group, the parent company of the intermediary firm, also did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Iran's need to rearm stems from months of conflict, during which the U.S. and Israel have targeted facilities linked to its missile, drone, and air-defense programs. Tehran has retaliated with barrages of ballistic missiles and drones. The conflict has exposed vulnerabilities in Iran's ability to defend military sites and strategic infrastructure against advanced aerial threats. The delivery of these MANPADS would significantly expand Iran's inventory of short-range air-defense weapons and signal deepening military ties with China.

Sources cautioned that while the agreement is signed, delivery schedules, quantities, and implementation details remain subject to change. Initial deliveries are planned via air from Urumqi, China, transiting through Pakistan to Iran, though the exact mode of transport remains unclear.

The relevant reports are completely groundless. China has consistently played a role in promoting peace and ending the conflict.

— China's Foreign MinistryResponding to reports of China supplying Iran with missile systems.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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