Iran Acquires Advanced Chinese Air Defense System in Exchange for Oil

In an effort to rebuild its air defense infrastructure damaged by recent Israeli airstrikes, Iran has obtained advanced surface-to-air missile systems from China in exchange for oil.

According to reports from Middle East Eye and Military Watch Magazine, Tehran has acquired China’s HQ-9 or a similar surface-to-air missile system, which is considered effective against Israeli aerial assaults.

The HQ-9 system, in use since 2001, is modeled after Russia’s S-300 and has a range of approximately 300 kilometers. Each missile can carry up to 180 kilograms of explosives.

Following a 12-day conflict with Israel, Iran is currently observing a ceasefire. Tehran is using this period to address vulnerabilities in its air defense capabilities by upgrading to more modern technology. Reports indicate that the HQ-9 system has already arrived in Iran, and the White House is said to be aware of the development.

During the recent clashes, Israel was able to target and damage several strategic sites in Iran, exposing critical weaknesses in Iran’s air defense network. In response, Tehran has prioritized strengthening its aerial defense infrastructure.