Iran is expected to receive its first shipment of Chinese-made man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) within weeks under a defense agreement valued at $60–70 million, according to a Reuters report citing three sources familiar with the matter.
The report said the contract covers 300 to 400 shoulder-fired air defense systems, including QW-12 and FN-16 missiles, which are designed to strengthen Iran’s short-range air defense capabilities.
Defense Deal Reportedly Signed
According to Reuters, the agreement was signed through Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, a Hong Kong-based company that the sources described as an intermediary between the Iranian side and the Chinese supplier.
The sources, who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter, said the deliveries could begin within weeks. However, they cautioned that delivery schedules, quantities, and implementation details could still change.
China Rejects the Report
China’s Foreign Ministry denied the report, describing it as inaccurate.
“The relevant reports are completely groundless. China has consistently played a role in promoting peace and ending the conflict,” a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.
Meanwhile, the parent company of Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to Reuters.
Iran Seeks to Rebuild Air Defenses
The reported purchase comes as Iran seeks to rebuild its air defense network following months of conflict that exposed vulnerabilities in protecting military facilities and strategic infrastructure.
Reuters reported that the proposed acquisition would significantly expand Iran’s inventory of short-range air defense systems if implemented.
Pakistan Mentioned as Transit Route
The Reuters report also claimed that the initial deliveries would depart from Urumqi in western China and transit through Pakistan before reaching Iran. However, the report did not specify whether the transportation would occur by air or by road.
No official confirmation has been issued by Pakistan regarding any such transit arrangement.
Awaiting Independent Confirmation
Neither Iran nor China has officially confirmed the reported defense deal. While Reuters cited multiple sources familiar with the negotiations, Beijing has categorically denied the claims.
The reported shipment therefore remains unconfirmed, and further official statements may clarify the situation.
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