Iran Nears Deal to Buy Chinese Supersonic Anti-Ship Missiles: Sources

Iran is close to finalizing a deal to purchase Chinese-made supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles, according to multiple sources, at a time when the United States is deploying a large naval presence near Iran’s coast amid preparations for a possible strike.

A report by Reuters said the agreement involves the acquisition of the CM-302 missile system, a Chinese-built supersonic weapon with a range of approximately 290 kilometres. The missile is designed to fly at low altitude and high speed, enabling it to evade ship-based defence systems.

Experts say that if deployed, such missiles could pose a significant threat to US naval forces operating in the region.

The CM-302 is manufactured by China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), a state-owned Chinese defence firm. The company markets the missile as one of the world’s most advanced anti-ship systems, claiming it is capable of destroying large naval vessels, including aircraft carriers and destroyers.