Iran Nears Missile Deal with China as U.S. Ramps Up Naval Presence

Iran is reportedly close to finalizing a deal with China for the purchase of advanced anti-ship cruise missiles, according to six individuals familiar with the negotiations. The development comes as the United States increases its naval deployment near Iranian waters amid rising tensions and the possibility of military strikes.

Sources disclosed that the agreement involves the Chinese-manufactured CM-302 supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles, though a delivery timeline has yet to be confirmed.

The missiles, which have a range of approximately 290 kilometres, are designed to fly at low altitudes and high speeds, making them difficult for shipborne defence systems to intercept.

Security analysts say the deployment of the CM-302 would significantly strengthen Iran’s naval strike capability and pose a serious threat to the U.S. warships operating in the region.

Negotiations between Tehran and Beijing reportedly began at least two years ago but accelerated following the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran in June.

As discussions moved into advanced stages last summer, senior Iranian military and government officials travelled to China. Among them was Massoud Oraei, Iran’s deputy defence minister, a visit that had not previously been made public.

Danny Citrinowicz, a former Israeli intelligence officer and now a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv, described the potential acquisition as a “gamechanger.” He noted that supersonic anti-ship missiles are extremely difficult to intercept and could alter the military balance in the region.

Details surrounding the potential deal remain unclear, including the number of missiles involved, the cost of the agreement, and whether China will proceed given the heightened geopolitical tensions.

An Iranian foreign ministry official stated that Iran maintains military and security agreements with its allies and suggested that the timing is appropriate to utilise such partnerships.

In response to the report, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was unaware of any negotiations regarding a missile sale. China’s defence ministry did not provide a response.

The White House did not directly comment on the alleged talks. However, a U.S. official referenced President Donald Trump’s stance on Iran, stating that Washington remains prepared to either pursue a deal or take “very tough” action, similar to previous confrontations.

If completed, the transfer of such advanced weaponry would represent one of the most significant military transactions between China and Iran in recent years.

It would also raise questions about compliance with United Nations sanctions originally imposed in 2006.

While those sanctions were eased in 2015 under the nuclear agreement with world powers, they were reinstated last September.

The situation continues to unfold as diplomatic and military tensions remain high in the region.