Iran and China Edge Closer to Missile Deal

Reports indicate that Iran is close to finalizing a deal with China to acquire anti-ship cruise missiles, coinciding with the U.S. repositioning its navy near Iran amidst escalating tensions.

According to three Iranian officials, an agreement is in the works for the procurement of CM-302 supersonic missiles that can reach about 180 miles. This deal, which has been negotiated for over two years, sped up following a brief conflict between Iran and Israel in June 2025, which ended with President Trump targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities.

The missile is designed to fly low and at high speeds, which could make it challenging for naval defenses to intercept. Defense experts have suggested that such capabilities could present a significant threat to U.S. naval operations in the area. “If Iran gets supersonic capabilities to attack ships, it would entirely alter the landscape,” remarked Danny Sitrinowitz, a former Israeli intelligence officer and current Iranian researcher. “These missiles are notoriously difficult to shoot down.”

Details regarding the financial aspects and the exact number of missiles involved remain vague, as officials have indicated uncertainty about the timeline for their arrival in Iran.

As one Iranian Foreign Ministry official stated, “Iran has military agreements with its allies, and now is the right moment to leverage these partnerships.”

The White House has communicated its ongoing desire to reach a new deal with Iran. If negotiations fail, it suggested that it may resort to tough measures, reminiscent of previous military actions believed to have hindered Iran’s nuclear efforts.

U.S. forces, including two transport planes capable of carrying around 5,000 personnel and an array of 150 aircraft, are moving closer to Iran following President Trump’s February 19 deadline for a nuclear agreement.

This diplomatic effort comes amid widespread protests against the Iranian regime, which have reportedly resulted in significant casualties among demonstrators.

According to Citrinovich, China perceives U.S. influence in Iran as a potential threat. “China does not want a pro-Western regime to take shape in Iran,” he explained.

China’s Foreign Ministry, however, claimed ignorance regarding any missile sale talks with Iran, and its Ministry of Defense has not yet provided comments on the matter.