Following months of conflict with the United States and Israel, Iran is purchasing Chinese-made man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) to bolster its air defense capabilities. Reuters reported this information, citing three sources familiar with the matter.
According to the sources, the deal—valued at $60 to $70 million—involves the purchase of 300 to 400 QW-12 and FN-16 MANPADS. The first shipment could arrive in Iran within the next few weeks. However, China’s Foreign Ministry has dismissed the report as “completely baseless,” and Iran’s Foreign Ministry has not offered an immediate comment.
The Reuters report notes that Iran initiated efforts to rebuild its defense systems after facilities linked to its missile, drone, and air defense programs sustained damage during recent hostilities. This new arms purchase is believed to be part of that effort.
Under the plan, the initial shipment is to be airlifted from Urumqi in western China. While the route was expected to pass through Pakistan, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has categorically denied any involvement in the transfer of air defense weapons from China to Iran, dismissing such claims as entirely false.
Military analysts observe that MANPADS are easily portable and can be deployed rapidly. They are harder to detect and destroy than stationary air defense systems and are effective against drones, helicopters, and low-flying fighter jets.
Meanwhile, European and Middle Eastern security sources indicate that discussions are underway regarding additional potential deals for the sale of QW-12, QW-18, and QW-19 series MANPADS to Iran. Reuters had previously reported that Iran was also nearing a separate agreement to purchase anti-ship cruise missiles from China.
