Iran is close to finalizing a deal with China to acquire the CM-302 supersonic naval target robot, a move that could change the military balance in the Persian Gulf.
According to Reuters, the talks intensified after the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran in June 2025 and are now at an advanced stage.
Sources state that negotiations began at least two years ago but have recently gained new momentum. High-ranking Iranian officials, including the deputy defense minister, are said to have traveled to China during the final phase of the discussions. Although the agreement is stated to be in principle complete, no delivery plan has yet been established.
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A potential operational use of the CM-302 could significantly strengthen Iran’s offensive capabilities against naval targets, particularly against US Navy ships operating in the region. Washington is currently maintaining an increased military presence near Iran’s coast due to the risk of new confrontations.
The CM-302 is an export version of the YJ-12 robot used by the Chinese Navy. It can exceed Mach 3 and has a range of about 300 kilometers. The robot is equipped with a 250 kg warhead, satellite navigation and active radar seeker in the final phase. The weapon is designed to fly at low altitude above the sea surface 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
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @PLA_MilitaryUpd | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editors
