China may supply Iran with radar systems to bolster its air defense capabilities — CBS News
China is considering transferring advanced radar systems to Iran, which could significantly strengthen Tehran’s air defense capabilities.
According to U.S. intelligence, Beijing may also be assisting Iran with satellite technology and reconnaissance capabilities, thereby enhancing its military capabilities.
This was reported with reference to CBS News.
What systems might Iran receive?
According to officials familiar with a report by the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), Beijing has considered supplying Tehran with X-band radars.
Such technology would significantly enhance Iran’s ability to detect and track threats, including low-flying drones and cruise missiles, and would help protect its air defense systems from precision strikes.
Previous instances of support
Earlier, the Financial Times reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had used a spy satellite, secretly purchased from the Chinese company Earth Eye Co., to target U.S. bases in the Middle East.
A December 2025 Pentagon report noted that Chinese commercial satellite companies had engaged in business transactions with Iran’s IRGC as of 2024.
Additionally, according to intelligence reports, China was also considering transferring air defense systems to Iran, possibly through third countries to conceal direct involvement.
Last week, CNN reported that intelligence had detected China preparing to supply Iran with man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS).
U.S. Reaction and China’s Position
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hagset stated that President Trump has a “very strong and direct relationship” with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and China has assured that the transfer of weapons to Iran “will not take place.” Trump also said he had sent a letter to Xi Jinping asking him not to provide weapons to Iran.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington declined to comment on the letters but stated that China’s position on Iran is “open and transparent,” and that Beijing “never engages in actions that escalate conflicts.”
China’s GDP grew by 5% in the first quarter despite external challenges — FT.
China has deniedreports of correspondence between Xi Jinping and Trump regarding Iran.
Iran and the U.S. have not yet agreed on a new round of talks, although both sides continue to exchange messages through intermediaries. At the same time, various options for a potential meeting location are being considered, but no final decision has been made.
Additionally, China has criticized the US for the naval blockade of Iranian ports. Beijing believes that such actions only escalate the situation and could derail the ceasefire. The statement came after the collapse of negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
The U.S. and Iran are discussing a new round of talks – Bloomberg.
Ukraine and a number of countries have supported the EU’s new sanctions against Russia.
