Iran set to receive shoulder-fired air defence systems from Chinese
The report said Iran is set to receive as many as 400 QW-12 and FN-16 man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS) in a deal estimated to be worth between $60 million and $70 million.
Iran is reportedly preparing to strengthen its air defence capabilities following months of conflict with the United States and Israel, with Tehran expected to acquire hundreds of Chinese-made shoulder-fired surface-to-air missiles, according to a Reuters report.
The report said Iran is set to receive as many as 400 QW-12 and FN-16 man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS) in a deal estimated to be worth between $60 million and $70 million.
The portable missile systems are reportedly intended to help Iran rebuild and reinforce its air defence network after the recent conflict exposed vulnerabilities in the country’s ability to protect its airspace against sophisticated aerial attacks.
The reported deal has also drawn attention to the expanding strategic relationship between Iran and China, with the alleged shipment said to involve a delivery route through western China and Pakistan.
However, Beijing has denied that such a deal is taking place, leaving questions over whether the reported transfer will proceed and the exact nature of any military cooperation between the two countries.
If confirmed, the acquisition of the MANPADS could provide Iran with a more flexible and mobile layer of air defence, allowing its forces to deploy short-range systems in different locations to counter low-flying aircraft and helicopters.
The reported move comes as Tehran seeks to address weaknesses exposed during its confrontation with the United States and Israel and accelerate efforts to rebuild its military capabilities.
The development is likely to further intensify scrutiny of the growing China-Iran strategic partnership, particularly in the areas of defence and security, as Tehran works to strengthen its air defence network and prepare for potential future military confrontations.
