Sources: Iran to receive Chinese shoulder-fired air defense missile systems within weeks

Published Jul 30, 03:33 PM UTC

Iran is expected to receive a first shipment of up to 400 Chinese-made shoulder-fired air defense missile launchers within weeks, according to three sources familiar with the deal. The purchase, valued at $60-70 million, includes QW-12 and FN-16 MANPADS and is one of Tehran's largest efforts to strengthen short-range air defenses amid its ongoing war with the U.S. and Israel. The deal was signed with Hong Kong-based intermediary Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment. China's foreign ministry denied the reports, and Pakistan's military dismissed claims of involvement in transit. The delivery is planned via air from Urumqi, China, through Pakistan. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed surprise, citing assurances from Chinese President Xi Jinping not to intervene on Iran's behalf. The sources cautioned that delivery schedules and quantities could still change.