According to Middle East Eye, citing informed sources, Iran received Chinese-made 9-HQ long-range air defense systems after establishing an unofficial ceasefire with Israel on June 24, 2025.
This move comes as Tehran seeks to quickly rebuild its defense systems, which were damaged during the recent 12-day conflict with Israel.
Arab sources told Middle East Eye that these systems were provided through a barter agreement with China in exchange for Iranian oil exports to the country.
The 9-HQ system is an upgraded version of the 9-HQ with an advanced AESA radar and an operational range of up to 300 kilometers, capable of simultaneously tracking hundreds of targets, including aircraft, cruise missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, and stealth targets.
Although the system has not yet been tested in real combat, Chinese military exercises demonstrate its ability to counter complex threats.
The report also indicates that the White House and America’s Arab allies are aware of Iran’s efforts to strengthen its air defenses.
