Iran pushes missile agreement with China as US deploys naval forces
Iran (Photo: Getty Images)
Danny Citrinowicz, a former Israeli intelligence officer and analyst at the Institute for National Security Studies, said that Iran’s acquisition of supersonic anti-ship missiles could radically change the balance of power in the region, according to Reuters.
Read also: Iran on alert as Trump orders US aircraft carrier into Mediterranean
Deal in the final stage
According to sources, Tehran has moved closer to concluding a deal with Beijing to purchase CM-302 anti-ship cruise missiles. The delivery timeline has not yet been determined, but negotiations are in the final stage.
The missiles are capable of striking targets at a distance of about 290 kilometers and are designed to bypass ship defenses thanks to their low flight trajectory and high speed.
Experts believe that the emergence of such weapons could significantly strengthen Iran’s military capabilities and create risks for the naval forces of the US.
Talks accelerated after the conflict
Negotiations on the purchase of missile systems have been ongoing for about two years. However, after a brief war between Israel and Iran in the summer, the talks intensified.
Sources claim that representatives of the Iranian leadership traveled to China, including Deputy Defense Minister Masoud Oraei.
“It’s a complete gamechanger if Iran has supersonic capability to attack ships in the area,” Danny Citrinowicz said.
Reaction of the US and the regional situation
Washington, D.C. has not directly commented on the possible deal. However, a White House representative recalled remarks by President Donald Trump, who warned that tough measures could follow if no agreement is reached.
Amid rising tensions, the US is increasing its military presence near Iran. The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group are currently in the region, and the USS Gerald R. Ford is also heading there.
Analysts believe the potential deal could strengthen military cooperation between Tehran and Beijing and complicate US efforts to contain Iran’s missile program. In addition, the transfer of such systems could be affected by restrictions imposed by the UN.
Iran and Russia concluded a confidential agreement worth approximately €500 million предусматриing the supply of modern Verba man-portable air defense systems. According to available information, the arrangement is non-public and concerns the transfer of a batch of the latest Russian-designed MANPADS for Iran’s needs.
The US is ready to hold a new round of talks with Iran in Geneva as early as next Friday, but expects Tehran to provide a detailed proposal within 48 hours that could be discussed at the meeting.
