Middle East Conflict: Xi Jinping left embarrassed as US, Israel attack Iran; Is China's weakness exposed?

Tehran: Iran deployed a large number of Chinese air defense systems to deter US and Israeli airstrikes. However, these air defense systems failed to prevent Israeli and US attacks on Tehran. One of these systems is China's HQ-9B air defense system. Iran recently purchased the HQ-9B air defense system from China to strengthen its air defenses. This is the same air defense system that failed to protect Pakistan from Indian airstrikes during Operation Sindoor. Consequently, questions are now being raised about the capabilities of the Chinese HQ-9B.

What is the HQ-9B air defense system like?

The HQ-9B air defense system was developed by the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation. It is based on technology from the Russian S-300PMU and the American Patriot PAC-2 systems. However, China claims it is an indigenous air defense system. It was first tested in 2006 and has been in use for the past ten years. The HQ-9B air defense system has a range of 260 km. It can fly up to 50 km to intercept high-altitude projectiles.

The HQ-9B features active radar homing and a passive infrared seeker, making it effective against stealth aircraft. The HQ-9B can simultaneously engage 6-8 targets and track up to 100. China has deployed the HQ-9B in Beijing, Tibet, and the South China Sea, all of which are crucial to China's strategic interests.

Why did Iran purchase the HQ-9B Air Defense System?

Given the rising tensions in the Middle East and the threat of Israeli attack, Iran purchased the HQ-9B to strengthen its air defenses. It is learned that Iran purchased the HQ-9B as part of an arms-for-oil deal with China. Iran signed a deal to purchase the HQ-9B from China following the poor performance of the Russian S-300PMU-2 against Israeli missiles during the 2025 war.

Where did Iran deploy the HQ-9B?

According to reports, Iran deployed the HQ-9B around key targets such as the Natanz Nuclear Complex, the Fordo Enrichment Facility, IRGC missile and UAV bases, and airbases near Tehran and Isfahan. The system was deployed alongside the S-300PMU-2 and Bavar-373 (long-range), Khordad-15 and Raad (medium-range), and short-range Tor-M2, Pantsir-S1, Zolfaqar, and tactical MANPADS missiles.