Iran is close to finalizing a deal with China to acquire the CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missile, a move that could change the military balance in the Persian Gulf.
According to Reuters, negotiations intensified after the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran in June 2025 and are now at an advanced stage.
Sources say the talks began at least two years ago, but have recently gained new momentum. Senior Iranian officials, including the deputy defense minister, are said to have traveled to China for the final phase of the talks. Although the deal is reportedly close to being signed, the delivery schedule has yet to be determined.
A possible phase-in of the CM-302 could significantly strengthen Iran’s offensive capability against maritime targets, especially US naval vessels operating in the region. Washington currently maintains an increased military presence near the Iranian coast due to the risk of new confrontations.
The CM-302 is an export version of the YJ-12 missile used by the Chinese Navy. The missile can exceed Mach 3 and has a range of about 300 kilometers. It is equipped with a 250 kg warhead, satellite navigation and active radar seeker in the terminal phase. The weapon is designed to fly at low altitude above sea level and hit ships at high speed, reducing the reaction time of the opponent.
🚨JUST IN:🇨🇳🇮🇷IRAN is nearing a deal with CHINA to purchase an unknown number of YJ-12E CARRIER KILLERS (CM-302) Supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles.
▫️ Range: 290 km
▫️ Flight Speed: Mach 4
▫️ Low Sea-skimming, hard to intercept
▫️ Can perform Evasive Manoeuvres to avoid SAMs pic.twitter.com/vjygEGio28— PLA Military Updates (@PLA_MilitaryUpd) February 24, 2026
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Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @PLA_MilitaryUpd | This content is created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editors
