Israeli drones and Iranian rockets had a Chinese signature

Chinese-made parts were a major component of the drones and missiles that Iran launched at Israel on Saturday night. Together, Israel, the US, and the UK knocked down 99 percent of the 300 missiles and drones used in Iran’s strike.

The US and UK had been following China for decades, so they were familiar with the capabilities of the “kamikaze” drones that carried ammo as well as the anticipated trajectory of Iran’s ballistic missiles, which made the mission comparatively easier.

China’s military might has been the subject of yearly reviews from the US Department of Defense. The intelligence services monitor China and the risks it poses.

With the help of interceptor missiles launched by US ground stations in West Asia, fighter planes, and even warships stationed in the Mediterranean Sea, west of Israel, Israel’s multi-layered air defense system came into action on Saturday.

Beijing Micropilot UAV Flight Control Systems produces the engine for Iran’s “Shahed” armed drone, which has the capacity to destroy itself when it reaches a target. The Mado Import and Export firm Ltd. in Iran receives the same from the Chinese firm.

All missiles employ optical instruments, seekers, and sensors to precisely locate and strike targets. Raybeam Optronics Co Ltd, Sunway Tech Co Ltd, and Wuhan IRCEN Technology Co Ltd are the three Chinese businesses that created the components that Iran shot into the air. These three businesses—Rayan Electronic Farda Company, Rayan Laser Test Company, and Rayan Pardazesh Pezhvak Company—supply components to Iranian businesses.

China has formally supplied fighter planes, anti-tank weapons, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, and tanks to Iran. China was crucial in establishing Iran’s missile technology shortly after the Islamic Revolution in 1979. Hundreds of missile guidance systems and computerized machine tools were sent by China to Tehran, and in August 1996, a deal was made to supply Iran’s Defense Industries Organization items such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and other equipment required for missile guidance components.

China then began using technology and training to build missile manufacturing facilities. China first provided support for the construction of Iran’s biggest missile facility, which is situated close to Esfahan.

This factory, which was operational from 1987 to 1988, was used to assemble Iran’s SCUD-B missile kits. China has contributed to the construction of a ballistic missile factory and test range east of Tehran in addition to helping with production at Esfahan. It is also believed that China is manufacturing solid-fuel rockets at an Iranian defense facility.