London, Feb 24 (GeokHub) – Iran is reportedly close to securing a deal with China to acquire advanced anti-ship cruise missiles, potentially enhancing its naval strike capabilities amid escalating tensions with the United States. The agreement would involve Chinese-made CM-302 supersonic missiles, which can travel approximately 290 kilometers while flying at low altitudes to evade defenses. Experts warn that their deployment would significantly increase Iran’s ability to challenge naval forces in the region.
Negotiations, which began at least two years ago, accelerated after the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran last June. Iranian officials, including Deputy Defense Minister Massoud Oraei, recently traveled to China to finalize discussions. Analysts describe the missiles as a “gamechanger,” emphasizing the difficulty of intercepting them once launched.
Strategic Implications
The prospective deal comes as the United States positions a substantial naval force, including the aircraft carriers USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford, near Iran. The U.S. aims to deter potential threats while preparing for possible military action if diplomatic efforts with Tehran fail.
“This would mark a significant leap in Iran’s maritime strike capacity,” said Danny Citrinowicz, a senior Iran researcher formerly with Israeli intelligence. “Supersonic missiles like these are extremely challenging to defend against.”
While the precise quantity, cost, and delivery schedule remain unclear, the agreement would represent one of the most sophisticated military transfers from China to Iran in decades. It also raises concerns about violations of the UN arms embargo, first imposed in 2006, though sanctions were temporarily lifted in 2015 and reimposed last year.
China-Iran Military Ties
The potential sale highlights growing military cooperation between China and Iran. Both nations, alongside Russia, conduct joint naval exercises and have previously voiced opposition to Western-imposed sanctions. Beijing has repeatedly emphasized support for Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, signaling its willingness to expand strategic partnerships in the region.
China’s state-owned China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), manufacturer of the CM-302, promotes the missile as capable of targeting large warships such as aircraft carriers and destroyers. The system can be deployed from ships, aircraft, or mobile ground platforms and is also capable of striking land-based targets.
Iran is reportedly exploring additional Chinese weapons systems, including surface-to-air missiles, anti-ballistic defenses, and anti-satellite capabilities. These developments come as Iran seeks to rebuild its arsenal following last year’s regional conflict.
