Iran to Receive Chinese-Made Missile Launchers as the Administration Rebuilds Defenses
Iran is expected to receive a shipment of up to 400 Chinese-made shoulder-fired air defense missile launchers within weeks. The purchase, valued between $60 million and $70 million, aims to strengthen Iran's short-range defenses following months of military strikes by the United States and Israel. The systems, including QW-12 and FN-16 models, are designed to protect military sites and strategic infrastructure from low-flying aircraft and drones. President Trump said the acquisition would be surprising given the assurances from Chinese President Xi Jinping not to get involved in the war on Iran's behalf. While China's Foreign Ministry dismissed the reports as groundless, the administration warned that China's involvement could have consequences. The shipment will transit through Pakistan before reaching Tehran. Despite the reports, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that China and Russia are enabling Iran in various ways, though the and extent of the support remains classified.