Iran is close to finalizing an agreement with China to acquire the CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missile, which may change the military balance in the Persian Gulf.
According to Reuters, the talks accelerated after the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran in June 2025 and are now at an advanced stage.
Sources say that the negotiations began at least two years ago, but have recently gained new dynamics. Senior Iranian officials, including the deputy defense minister, were expected to travel to China in the final phase of the talks. While the agreement is said to be almost ready, a delivery schedule has not yet been determined.
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The potential introduction of the CM-302 into service could significantly strengthen Iran’s offensive capabilities against maritime targets, especially US Navy ships operating in the region. Washington currently maintains a strengthened military presence near the Iranian coast amid the risk of further confrontations.
The CM-302 is an export version of the YJ-12 missile used by the Chinese Navy. It can exceed speeds of Mach 3 and has a range of approximately 300 kilometers. It is equipped with a 250 kg warhead, a satellite navigation system and an active end-of-flight radar. The weapon was designed to fly at low altitude above the sea surface and hit vessels at high speed, shortening the reaction time of enemy defense systems.
🚨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 | The content was prepared with the help of AI and verified by the editorial team
