China in US-Israel Conflict: After the recent US-Israeli joint strike on Iran, the situation in the region has become very tense. Reports say the attack killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and caused heavy missile damage across the country. As Iran faces serious military pressure, many people are asking whether China has helped Tehran strengthen its air and missile defences.
Beijing has officially denied sending direct weapons to Iran. Still, questions continue to rise. An intelligence note accessed by CNN-News18 claims that China’s support may not be open or public. Instead of sending large numbers of weapons directly, the cooperation may involve parts, technology access, or quiet negotiations. The report says Iran’s military rebuilding has relied on its own changes and also help from countries like Russia.
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Advanced Missiles and Defence Systems
One of the most talked about systems is the CM-302 supersonic anti-ship cruise missile. This missile is believed to be an export version of China’s YJ-12. Talks between Iran and China reportedly began last year after a 12-day conflict. By February 2026, negotiations were said to be close to completion.
The CM-302 has a strike range of around 290 to 460 kilometers and carries a 500 kilogram warhead. It flies very low over the sea, which makes it harder to stop. If Iran has received this missile, it could increase its ability to threaten naval forces in places like the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. Reports say senior Iranian officials visited China last summer to finalise the deal, though Beijing has denied these claims.
Another system mentioned in the intel note is the HQ-9B long range surface to air missile system. This system can strike targets between 200 to 260 kilometers away and can intercept threats at high altitudes. It is often compared to Russia’s S-300 or S-400 systems. The report says deliveries and setup may have started last summer and that some systems were placed near sensitive areas such as nuclear facilities.
The intel note also talks about the possible supply of YLC-8B UHF long range surveillance radars in 2025. These radars are used to detect stealth aircraft and these equipment would help Iran spot incoming threats earlier.
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Other Support and Military Supplies
The report further suggests that missile propellant materials and important components may have been transferred. It mentions about 1,000 tonnes of sodium perchlorate sent in February 2025. This chemical is used in making missile fuel.
There are also claims about loitering munitions, often called kamikaze drones. These drones can fly around a target area, wait, and then crash directly into the target in a one way attack. Such systems could improve Iran’s strike abilities.
