Will China Become Iran’s Major Defense Partner?
- Iran is seeking to modernize its aging air force by acquiring advanced fighter jets amid growing military tensions in 2025.
- This effort follows stalled deliveries of 50 Russian Su-35s purchased in 2022–2023 due to Russia's focus on the Ukraine war and supply issues.
- Iran initiated advanced talks and exploratory visits with China to acquire Chengdu J-10C jets, but negotiations have faltered over payment and geopolitical concerns.
- The J-10C, a 4.5-generation multirole fighter equipped with AESA radar and long-range missiles, could enhance Iran's air defense but China remains cautious due to regional and diplomatic factors.
- Iran's strategic isolation, sanctions, and limited foreign military support pose significant challenges to rebuilding its air power and deterring regional adversaries.
14 Articles
14 Articles
After Russia's Failure, Iran Seeks China's Military Might
The war with Israel last month decimated a senior echelon of Iran’s military leadership, crippled its air defenses, and exposed the vulnerability of its air force. Within days, Israel had established aerial superiority, paving the way for US air strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. But the war also tested the limits of Iran’s alliance with Russia, which offered little more than diplomatic support to Tehran during the 12-day conflict. With faith in M…
Iran eyes chinese J-10C fighter jets amid Russian deal delays
Tehran: Iran is reportedly in talks with China to acquire advanced J-10C fighter jets, also known as the “Vigorous Dragon”, as part of efforts to modernise its ageing air force. The move comes as Tehran’s planned acquisition of 50 Russian Su-35s has stalled, with only four aircraft delivered since the 2023 agreement. The remainder of the deal has been suspended, reportedly due to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, prompting Iranian defence officia…
An intelligence report reveals that Iran manages the purchase of Chinese J-10C fighter aircraft to deal with the powerful F-35 U.S.-made fighter that is part of the Israeli Air Force.
Ukraine war impact? Russian supplies stalled, Iran eyes China jets amid tension with Israel, US
Iran is negotiating with China to buy 36 J-10C fighter jets as it looks to modernise its ageing air force, after facing delays in getting Russian Su-35 aircraft due to Moscow’s focus on the Ukraine war. The talks come amid rising threats from Israel and the US.
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