Iran is close to finalizing a deal with China to acquire the CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missile, a move that could alter 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 reportedly at an advanced stage.
Sources indicate that negotiations began at least two years ago but gained renewed momentum recently. Senior Iranian officials, including the Deputy Defense Minister, reportedly traveled to China during the final phase of discussions. Although the agreement is said to be nearly complete, there is still no defined delivery schedule.
The potential incorporation of the CM-302 could significantly enhance Iran’s offensive capability against naval targets, particularly U.S. Navy vessels operating in the region. Washington currently maintains a reinforced military presence near the Iranian coastline amid the possibility of further confrontations.
An export version of the YJ-12 missile used by the Chinese Navy, the CM-302 can exceed Mach 3 and has an approximate range of 300 kilometers. Equipped with a 250 kg warhead, satellite navigation system, and active radar guidance in the terminal phase, the weapon is designed to fly at low altitude and strike vessels at high speed, reducing the reaction time of enemy defenses.
🚨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 was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
