Iran to Receive Chinese-Made Air Defense Missiles Within Weeks, Reuters Report

TEHRAN, July 29: Iran is expected to receive its first shipment of Chinese-made shoulder-fired air defense missile systems within weeks as it seeks to strengthen its defenses during its ongoing conflict with the United States, as per Reuters, citing three sources familiar with the agreement.

According to the report, the deal is valued at between $60 million and $70 million and covers the delivery of 300 to 400 QW-12 and FN-16 man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS).

Reuters said the procurement represents one of Tehran's largest known efforts to reinforce its short-range air defense capabilities since the outbreak of the conflict involving the United States and Israel. The war has reportedly exposed weaknesses in Iran's ability to protect military installations and strategic infrastructure from aerial attacks.

The report said the agreement was signed through Hong Kong-based Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, which sources identified as an intermediary between the Iranian side and the Chinese supplier.

China dismissed the Reuters report as "groundless," while Pakistan denied any involvement in the transfer of the missile systems.

Neither Iranian officials nor the alleged supplier immediately commented further on the reported agreement. Reuters said the information was based on sources familiar with the deal.