Iran is reportedly set to receive up to 400 Chinese-made shoulder-fired surface-to-air missile launchers within weeks, according to a report. The $70 million deal includes QW-12 and FN-16 systems, with delivery expected in the coming weeks.
A new report cites that Iran is set to receive up to 400 Chinese-made QW-12 and FN-16 shoulder-fired surface-to-air missile launchers within weeks, under a $70 million contract. The delivery is expected to be flown from Urumqi via Pakistan, according to the report.
Earlier today at 06:52 Jerusalem, The Zioneer reported on a Reuters dispatch that first broke the story of Iran expecting the first shipment of hundreds of Chinese MANPADS within weeks, with Tehran and Beijing exploring overland transfer routes to avoid interception. Subsequent updates to the thread added the $60–70 million valuation, the specific models QW-12 and FN-16, and the air delivery route via Pakistan. The deal has been officially denied by both Beijing and Islamabad.
The acquisition is part of Iran's efforts to rebuild its air defense capabilities, which were degraded during the recent conflict with Israel and the United States. As The Zioneer reported on June 21, Iran is also exploring the purchase of Chinese J-10 fighter jets to modernize its aging air force. The reports come amid ongoing regional tensions and a broader pattern of Iranian military procurement from friendly countries.
It remains unclear whether the delivery will proceed as described, given the denials by China and Pakistan. The exact timeline for delivery remains uncertain, and the status of the previously reported overland route discussions has not been clarified.
8 developments
- DevelopingIran explores acquiring Chinese J-10 fighters to modernize aging air force
- DevelopingUS signs $439.4 million contract for ATACMS missiles for Taiwan
- StrongGreece approves $4 billion 'Achilles Shield' air defense deal from Israel
- DevelopingWashington Post: months of fighting Iran depleted US Patriot and THAAD interceptor stocks, official says
Source and signal
- Open-source intake