Iran expected to receive Chinese air-defense launchers

The sources said the contract covers between 300 and 400 man-portable air-defense systems, including Chinese-made QW-12 and FN-16 missiles. They said the deal was signed with Hong Kong-based Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, which was acting as an intermediary between Iran and the Chinese supplier.

China’s Foreign Ministry denied the report. “The relevant reports are completely groundless. China has consistently played a role in promoting peace and ending the conflict,” the ministry said. Zhong Qing Bao Shang Group, identified as the parent company of Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Under the plan described by the sources, the systems would initially be flown from Urumqi in western China and then transit through Pakistan to Iran. The sources did not say whether the final leg would be by air or road. Pakistan’s military media wing, ISPR, denied involvement, saying: “Speculations of Pakistan being involved in supply of air defence weapons to Iran from China are absolutely concocted and false.”

Defense analysts cited by Reuters said portable air-defense systems can help protect military sites, energy infrastructure and other strategic facilities because they can be moved quickly and operated by small teams. Two Western intelligence sources and an Iranian official also told Reuters that Tehran had explored overland routes for transporting Chinese military equipment and dual-use components to reduce disruption risks. Reuters previously reported that Iran was close to a separate agreement with China to buy anti-ship cruise missiles, but said it could not determine whether that deal was completed.