Iran is set to take delivery of an initial shipment of up to 400 Chinese shoulder-fired air defence systems in the coming weeks, according to Reuters.
The acquisition, estimated between $60m and $70m, represented one of Tehran’s most significant efforts to bolster its short-range air defence capabilities following the launch of the US and Israel’s war on the country, which has revealed vulnerabilities in its ability to shield critical infrastructure and military bases.
Reuters said the contract entailed the purchase of 300 to 400 man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS), specifically involving Chinese QW-12 and FN-16 missiles.
