According to a report by Middle East Eye (MEE), Iran has acquired surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems from China in an effort to rebuild its air defense capabilities after a de facto ceasefire with Israel was reached on June 24. These systems were reportedly obtained through a barter arrangement involving crude oil.
Sources with access to Arab intelligence told MEE that the United States and its regional allies are aware of the transaction, and the White House has been informed. While the exact number of systems delivered remains undisclosed, the sources emphasized that payment was made through oil-for-systems exchanges. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, nearly 90% of Iran’s oil exports go to China.
The shipments followed Israel’s 12-day military offensive, during which numerous Iranian ballistic missile launchers were destroyed. Several senior Iranian commanders and scientists were also targeted. Nevertheless, Iran succeeded in striking strategic sites in Tel Aviv and Haifa during the conflict.
Growing China-Iran Defense Ties
This latest arms deal reflects deepening defense cooperation between Tehran and Beijing. In the late 1980s, Iran acquired HY-2 Silkworm missiles from China via North Korea. In 2010, there were reports that Iran had procured HQ-9 air defense systems directly from China. Today, Iran’s military inventory includes Russian-made S-300 systems, Chinese-origin HQ-2 and HQ-9 systems, as well as domestically developed platforms like Hordad and Bavar-373.
However, defense analysts suggest these systems may have limited effectiveness against advanced fifth-generation stealth aircraft like the Israeli F-35s.
MEE also notes that China is currently exporting HQ-9 and HQ-16 systems to Pakistan, and Egypt is among the countries confirmed to operate the HQ-9. These developments signal China’s expanding military footprint in the Middle East.
