Iran in Talks with China to Purchase CM-302 Supersonic Anti-Ship Missiles

Iran is close to reaching an agreement with China to purchase CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missiles to counter the United States Navy.

Reuters reported on this, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Negotiations between the parties allegedly began at least two years ago and accelerated sharply after the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June 2025.

According to sources, the agreement to supply Chinese-made CM-302 missiles is almost complete, though the delivery date has not yet been finalized.

Senior Iranian officials, including the deputy defense minister, reportedly visited China when negotiations entered their final stages last summer.

The purchase of these missiles will significantly enhance Iran’s strike capabilities and pose a threat to US Navy ships in the region.

It should be noted that the United States has currently deployed significant forces near the Iranian coast and in the region in general ahead of possible strikes against that country.

CM-302 missile

The CM-302 is a Chinese supersonic anti-ship cruise missile, which is an export version of the YJ-12 missile used by the Chinese Navy.

It is equipped with a liquid direct-flow air-breathing jet engine and four air intakes. This power plant provides supersonic flight speed throughout the entire route, right up to impact with the target.

The maximum speed can reach 3M and above, with a cruising speed of 1.5-2M. The missile has a range of about 300 km and a warhead weight of 250 kg.

The missile is almost 7 m long, with a body diameter of 0.7 m and a launch weight of 2000-2500 kg. It can be launched from both ships and ground-based launchers.

The CM-302 approaches its target at extremely low altitudes. A satellite navigation system is used for guidance. In the final stage of flight, an active radar homing head (GSH) is activated, which locks onto the surface target.