Iran Expected to Receive Chinese Air Defence Missile Systems

Chinese Military parade.

 

Iran Expected to Receive Chinese Air Defence Missiles, Sources Say

TEHRAN — July 29, 2026

Iran is expected to receive its first shipment of Chinese-made shoulder-launched air defence missile systems within weeks under a military agreement valued at between $60 million and $70 million, according to three sources familiar with the deal. The reported purchase comes as Tehran works to strengthen its air defences following months of conflict with the United States and Israel.

The agreement reportedly includes 300 to 400 man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS), including the Chinese-made QW-12 and FN-16 missile systems. The sources said the deal represents one of Iran's largest recent efforts to improve its short-range air defence capabilities after the war exposed weaknesses in protecting military facilities and critical infrastructure.

The sources said the contract was signed through Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, a Hong Kong-based company that allegedly acted as an intermediary between Iran and the Chinese supplier. The individuals requested anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the agreement.

China's Foreign Ministry rejected the report, calling it "completely groundless" and saying Beijing remains committed to promoting peace and ending the conflict. Zhong Qing Bao Shang Group, the parent company of the company named in the report, had not publicly commented at the time of publication. Iran's Foreign Ministry also had not responded to requests for comment.

According to the sources, deliveries are expected to begin from Urumqi in western China before passing through Pakistan on the way to Iran. However, they said the exact transport method and final delivery schedule could still change.

Pakistan's military denied any involvement in the reported transfers. Its military media wing described claims that Pakistan would help transport Chinese air defence systems to Iran as false. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry had not issued a public response.

Military analysts say portable air defence systems are valuable because they can be quickly moved and operated by small teams, making them harder to target than fixed missile batteries. The QW-12 and FN-16 are infrared-guided missiles designed to intercept low-flying aircraft, helicopters and drones, although experts generally consider the QW-12 less advanced than newer Chinese models.

A European security source said authorities were aware of discussions involving possible sales of several QW-series missile systems to Iran, including the QW-12, QW-18 and QW-19. Another security source in the Middle East said Iran had been seeking QW-12 and QW-18 systems but was unaware that a final agreement had already been reached.

Two Western intelligence sources and an Iranian official also said Tehran has explored overland routes for transporting Chinese military equipment and dual-use components to reduce the risk of disruption.

The reported procurement reflects Iran's continued efforts to rebuild its military capabilities through domestic production and foreign suppliers despite years of international sanctions and restrictions on defence-related imports.

While multiple sources described the agreement as signed, several details—including delivery timing, quantities and implementation—remain subject to change, and the governments involved have not publicly confirmed the reported deal.