Iran is on the verge of concluding 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, negotiations intensified after the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, in June 2025, and were already at an advanced stage.
Sources point out that negotiations began at least two years ago, but have recently gained new momentum. Senior Iranian officials, including the deputy defense minister, reportedly traveled to China during the final phase of the discussions. Although the agreement is practically closed, there is still no definition of the delivery schedule.
The eventual incorporation of the CM-302 could significantly expand Iranian offensive capabilities against naval targets, especially United States Navy ships operating in the region. Currently, Washington maintains a reinforced military presence near the Iranian coast due to the possibility of new clashes.
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An export version of the YJ-12 missile used by the Chinese Navy, the CM-302 can exceed Mach 3 and has a range of approximately 300 kilometers. Equipped with a 250 kg warhead, satellite navigation system and active radar in the final phase, the weapon is designed to fly at low altitude and hit vessels at high speed, reducing the reaction time of opposing defenses.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @PLA_MilitaryUpd | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
🚨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
