Middle East on edge: Iran to buy Chinese anti-ship cruise missiles amid Trump’s strike threat
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 24, 2026
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Iran is on the brink of finalizing a deal to purchase advanced Chinese anti-ship cruise missiles, according to Reuters, amid heightened tensions with the United States. The proposed agreement involves the CM-302 supersonic missiles, which have a range of approximately 290 km and are designed to evade shipborne defenses by flying low and fast. This acquisition could significantly enhance Iran's naval capabilities in the region, particularly given its potential to target US or other regional naval assets.
The negotiations between Iran and China began at least two years ago but intensified after the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran in June. Senior Iranian officials, including deputy defense minister Massoud Oraei, visited China last summer to advance the talks. While the details of the deal remain unclear—such as the number of missiles involved or financial terms—the potential transfer would mark a major step in Chinese arms exports to Iran. The move comes despite UN sanctions on Iranian arms imports, which were reimposed in September 2020.
The acquisition of these advanced missiles is seen as a game-changer for Iran's naval capabilities. Experts suggest that the supersonic technology could make it difficult for shipborne defenses to intercept them, giving Iran a significant edge in regional security dynamics. Meanwhile, the US has ramp
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026