CNN: China to Supply Iran With Man-Portable Air Defense Systems

China is preparing to deliver new man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) to Iran within the next few weeks.

CNN reported this information, citing three people familiar with the latest U.S. intelligence assessments.

Beijing plans to route shipments through third countries to conceal the weapons’ true origin.

The delivery of MANPADS would represent a significant escalation of support from China compared to previous transfers of dual-use technologies. U.S. intelligence indicates that Tehran may be using the ceasefire to replenish its own arsenals with the help of foreign partners.

A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington called these claims false and urged the U.S. to refrain from baseless accusations. The diplomatic mission emphasized that Beijing has never provided weapons to any party to the conflict and adheres to its international obligations.

China produces the FN (FeiNu) export line of MANPADS, which includes the FN-6 system and its upgraded version, the FN-16. These systems are capable of engaging targets at altitudes of up to 4 km. China has actively supplied these systems to Iran, Malaysia, Cambodia, Sudan, Pakistan, Peru, Syria, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.

In particular, in Myanmar, rebels used the FN-6 to shoot down a junta helicopter. The weapon was used by the Kachin Independence Army, a group composed of ethnic Kachins from the northern part of the country.