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China's Missile Exports and Assistance
to Iran - Statements and Developments
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This chronology includes statements and developments related to China's missile related exports and assistance to Iran, including allegations of assistance, and US, Chinese, and Iranian positions on the issue.
For more in-depth information on open source reports of Chinese exports and assistance, please consult the CNS Missile Abstracts database.
11/23/04: In its six-month assessment of WMD trends for July-December 2003, the CIA again acknowledged some improvements in Chinese nonproliferation efforts but raised concern about continued assistance to Iran. “Although Beijing continues to take some steps to educate firms and individuals on the new missile-related export regulations - offering an export control seminar in September 2003 for officials and companies from China and other countries - Chinese entities continued to work with Pakistan and Iran on ballistic missile-related projects during the second half of 2003. . . . Chinese-entity ballistic missile-related assistance helped Iran move toward its goal of becoming self-sufficient in the production of ballistic missiles.” [“Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions: 1 July Through 31 December 2003,” U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, November 23, 2004.]
11/22/04: The U.S. State Department imposed sanctions on four Chinese entities and one North Korean company under Section 3 of the Iran Nonproliferation Act of 2000 for allegedly selling weapons or cruise and ballistic missile technology and equipment to Iran. According to Public Notice 4914, the four Chinese entities sanctioned were the state-run Liaoning Jiayi Metals and Mineral Co. Ltd., Wha Cheong Tai Co. Ltd., Shanghai Triple International Ltd, and one individual identified as Q. C. Chen. Both Chen and Wha Cheong Tai Company Ltd. received sanctions in May and July of 2002. State Department spokesperson Adam Ereli stated, “There are unrepentant proliferators out there and it’s going to require a concerted, sustained effort to fight them.” When questioned about China’s commitment to the prevention of proliferation, he answered, “There's definitely a ways to go.” In response, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhang Qiyue stated, “The Chinese government attaches great importance to export control and law enforcement. We're also exerting effort to make sure that all the relevant regulations are implemented in real earnest. . . . If there are certain violations of Chinese companies and individuals, we will punish them according to law. However, in the meantime, we oppose other countries citing their domestic laws to impose sanctions on Chinese companies." [Department of State, “Public Notice 4914”, Federal Register, 69:230, 1 December 2004, http://wais.access.gpo.gov; "Transcript: State Department Noon Briefing,” U.S. State Department, 1 December 2004, http://usinfo.state.gov; “English Transcript of PRC FM Spokesman News Conference," Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Peoples Republic of China, 2 December 2004, FBIS CPP20041203000178.]
09/23/04: The U.S. State Department imposed sanctions on 14 entities, including 7 Chinese firms, under section 3 of the 2000 Iran Nonproliferation Act for the transfer to Iran of equipment and technology controlled by international export control lists or with the potential to aid in the development and production of missiles and weapons of mass destruction. The Chinese firms identified under Public Notice 4845 were the Beijing Institute of Aerodynamics, Beijing Institute of Opto-Electronic Technology (BIOET), China Great Wall Industry Corporation, China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), LIMMT Economic and Trade Company, Ltd, Oriental Scientific Instruments Corporation (OSIC), and South Industries Science and Technology Trading Co., Ltd. [Department of State, “Public Notice 4845,” Federal Register 69:188, 29 September 2004, http://wais.access.gpo.gov.]
06/16/04: The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission issued its annual report before the U.S. House of Representatives Armed Services Committee. Testifying on behalf of the commission, Carolyn Bartholomew said, “Chinese entities continue to assist Iran with dual-use missile-related items, raw materials and chemical weapons-related production equipment and technology” and that the report “provides ample documentation of why we continue to distrust the government of the People's Republic of China.” The report states, "China has sought energy cooperation with countries of concern to the United States, including Iran . . . Some analysts have voiced suspicions that China may have offered WMD-related transfers as a component of some of its energy deals.” China is suspected of assisting Iran with the medium-range Shahab-3 missile, which Iran recently tested. Other Chinese assistance to Iran has included support for indigenous Iranian missiles, propellant and chemicals used in making missile fuel, missile-guidance kits, gyroscopes, accelerometers and test equipment. Chinese companies are accused of having sold CSS-8 and DF-15 ballistic missiles to Iran, along with cruise missiles identified as HY-1, HY-2 Silkworm, C-201, C-601, C-801 and C-802. Bartholomew concluded, "It's very difficult for me to believe that if they can have 30,000 people who are tracking Internet usage, they could not be putting resources toward stopping companies who are doing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.” [“2004 Report to Congress of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission,” June 2004, http://www.uscc.gov; Bill Gertz, “China Breaks Vow On Halting Arms Transfer,” Washington Times, 23 August 2004, pg 1.]
04/07/04: The U.S. State Department sanctioned five Chinese companies, including Norinco and the China Precision Machinery Import/Export Corporation, for the transfer of cruise and ballistic missile components and technology to Iran. As with the previous round of sanctions, these sanctions were invoked as per the Iran Nonproliferation Act of 2000. These five companies were cited for the transfer of equipment and technology controlled under international export control lists or "otherwise having the potential to make a material contribution to the development" of cruise or ballistic missile systems. [Judith Miller, "Bush Puts Penalties on Nuclear Suppliers," New York Times, 2 April 2004, http://www.nytimes.com; Department of State, "Public Notice 4680," Federal Register 69:67, 7 April 2004, http://wais.access.gpo.gov.]
05/23/03: The U.S. government imposed sanctions on China North Industries Group (Norinco) for allegedly supplying missile technology to Iran. The sanctions, which went into effect on 9 May, barred all exports to the U.S. by Norinco or its subsidiaries, and forbade any contracts between the company and U.S. government agencies. The measure was expected to have more of an impact than previous sanctions; in 2002, Norinco exported an estimated $100 million worth of products to the U.S. [Guy Dinmore, "US Imposes New Sanctions on China," Financial Times, 22 May 2003.]
07/19/02: Effective July 9, 2002 the U.S. State Department will impose economic sanctions (Public Notice 4071) on eight (8) Chinese companies involving "three cases of sales of advanced conventional arms and chemical and biological weapons components to Iran." The following companies and individuals were sanctioned: Jiangsu Yongli Chemicals and Technology Import and Export Corporation (China); Q.C. Chen (China); China Machinery and Equipment Import Export Corporation (China); China National Machinery and Equipment Import Export Corporation (China); CMEC Machinery and Electric Equipment Import and Export Company Ltd. (China); CMEC Machinery and Electrical Import Export Company, Ltd. (China); China Machinery and Electric Equipment Import and Export Company (China); Wha Cheong Tai Company Ltd. (China); China Shipbuilding Trading Company (China); Hans Raj Shiv (India). The sales were made between September 2000 and October 2001 and violated the Iran-Iraq Nonproliferation Act of 1992. The duration of the sanctions is two (2) years. [Bill Gertz, "U.S. Penalizes 8 Chinese Firms," Washington Times, 19 July 2002, pg. 1.]
05/20/02: The Washington Times reported that effective May 9, 2002 the United States will impose sanctions on eight (8) Chinese companies (Public Notice 4020) and individual for violating conditions of the Iran Nonproliferation Act of 2000. "According to officials...the Chinese sanctions were imposed for sales of cruise missile components to Iran." The companies listed are: the Liyang Chemical Equipment Company (Liyang Yunlong of China); the Zibo Chemical Equipment Plant (Chemet Global Ltd of China); the China National Machinery and Electric Equipment Import and Export Company; the Wha Cheong Tai Company of China; the China Shipbuilding Trading Company; the China Precision Machinery Import/Export Corporation; the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation, and Q.C. Chen, a Chinese businessman. [Bill Gertz, Exporting Weapons Draws U.S. Sanction, The Washington Times, 20 May 2002, pg. 1..]
01/24/02: Effective January 16, 2002, the State Department stated (Public Notice 3893) that three (3) Chinese entities have "engaged in activities that require the imposition of measures to Section 3 of the Iran Nonproliferation Act of 2000." These companies are Liyang Chemical Equipment, China Machinery and Electric Equipment and Export Company, and Q.C. Chen (China).
02/23/01: U.S. Central Intelligence Agency in its Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions reports China has provided Iran with technical assistance and material assistance during the year 2000. [Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions 1 January Through 30 June 2000.]
01/26/01: The Washington Times reports China is continuing to sell missile related technologies to Iran. According to an anonymous source, China supplied Iran with specialty metals and chemicals used in missile production. China North Industries Co. was identified as the seller. Shahid Bakeri Industrial Group was identified as the Iranian buyer. [Bill Gertz, "Beijing Using Front Companies to Grab U.S. Arms Technology," The Washington Times, 26 January 2001, p. 1.]
11/21/00: The State Department announced that it was waiving sanctions on Chinese entities for the past sales of missile technologies to entities in Iran and Pakistan. These exports violated the 1990 Missile Control Act which calls for sanctions on entities engaged in export of MTCR-controlled items. The sanctions were for both for MTCR category I and category II items. The US also pledged to resume discussions as soon as possible on extending the 1995 US-China Agreement on International Trade in Commercial Launch Services. Under this accord, US companies can export satellites to China for launch on Chinese rocket boosters. However, the two main US companies involved in satellite trade with China, Hughes International and The Loral Corporation, are not able to engage in such trade because they are still under investigation for illegally providing China with controlled information that could have military applications. [State Department Statement on Chinese Missile Sanctions, November 2000]
In response to these actions, the Chinese Foreign Ministry issued its most stringent and specific policy statement on missile nonproliferation to date. China stated
"China is opposed to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction...China has no intention of assisting, in any way, any country in the development of ballistic missiles that can be used to deliver nuclear weapons (i.e., missiles capable of delivering a payload of at least 500 kg to a distance of at least 300 km.)" [Full Chinese Statement on Missile Nonproliferation, November 2000]
This statement appears to build on China's past commitment in the 1998 US-China Joint Statement on South Asia to not provide missile technologies to Pakistan or India. As part of the recent commitment, the Chinese government importantly promised, for the first time, to issue export control laws covering missile technologies. In the past, Chinese officials have stated that its controls on missile exports were governed by internal documents and not public laws. The Chinese pledged that the new laws would include such regulations as license application and review, end-user certifications, and a "catch-all" clause. The Chinese statement did not, however, specifically reference the MTCR or its control list and the statement did not mention when China would issue the new export control law. Yet, the Chinese government denies that it engaged in illegitimate trade with either Iran or Pakistan. The China Daily reports Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, Sun Yuxi refuting US allegations that China supplied Iran and Pakistan with missiles. Sun denounced the allegations as "rumors with ulterior motives." Sun said the PRC has exercised strict control on the export of missile technologies. ["Spokesman Refutes U.S. Allegations over Missiles," The China Daily, 24 November 2000, p.1; "US Welcomes PRC New Commitment," The People's Daily, 22 November 2000, p. 4.]
10/5/00: The Los Angeles Times reports the Clinton Administration has proposed a new arm control agreement to China. Under the agreement China would adopt its own export control laws on missile technology. The proposed deal is aimed at curtailing China's missile exports to Pakistan, Iran and other countries of concern. Marc Thiessen, spokesman for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee reacted negatively to the proposed deal. Thiessen said, "Chinese domestic law isn't worth the paper it's written on or the blood it's written with." Thiessen remarked that the administration's efforts are merely "a fig leaf to cover up an eight-year failure by this administration in containing proliferation to rogue states." [Jim Mann, "U.S. Take New Tack on China Arms Exports," The Los Angeles Times, 5 October 2000, p.1.]
08/13/00: In a political commentary piece, the Tehran Jomhuri-ye Eslami denied China had provided assistance to Iran's nuclear program. The denial comes after the release of the semiannual CIA report to Congress on arms proliferation. An excerpt from the Tehran paper follows:
"The officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran have repeatedly stressed that the elevation of Iran's military capability is merely for defensive reasons and that the successes scored are thanks to Iranian engineers and experts. They have also rejected the existence of any type of cooperation with other countries in this field. Also, the peaceful intentions behind nuclear research have always been emphasized."["US 'Allegations' on Russia, China Upgrading Iran's Nuclear Potential Rapped," Tehran Jomhuri-ye Eslami in Persian 13 August 2000, p. 16, in FBIS IAP20000828000007.]
08/09/00: A Washington Times article reports that the semiannual CIA report to Congress regarding arms proliferation indicates that, "...firms in China provided missile-related items, raw materials, ans/or assistance to several countries of proliferation concern-such as Iran, North Korea and Libya." [Bill Gertz, "Pakistan Gets More Chinese Weapons," The Washington Times, 9 August 2000, p. 1.]
07/18/00: In reference to recent reports of China's assistance to Iran's missile program, Zhu Bangzao, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, brushed aside allegations saying, "This report is baseless," and "We hope the Middle East and the Gulf will maintain peace and stability." [FM Spokesman Denies China Helped Iran Develop Missile Technology," Hong Kong AFP in English 0956 GMT 18 July 2000, in FBIS-CPP20000718000118.]
06/26/00: U.S. officials and some members of congress allege China violated previous pledges to end proliferation of missile technologies by continuing to provide missile assistance to Iran and Pakistan. The allegations surfaced as the Clinton Administration was making efforts to convince the Senate to ratify China's Permanent Normal Trade Relations status. Specific allegations pertain to ["China Not Expected to Reduce Missile Aid," Middle East Newsline, vol. 2, no. 242, 26 June 2000.]
06/11/00: Robert Einhorn, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Nonproliferation, and a small U.S. delegation visited Beijing secretly to discuss and secure a commitment from China, not to export missile components or technology to Iran or Pakistan. A recent U.S. intelligence report indicates China has begun construction of a missile plant in Pakistan. ["Secretive U.S. Visit to Beijing," Far Eastern Economic Review (internet edition), 22 June 2000.]
6/6/00: In response to a report that China has been transferring
missile material and technology to Iran, State
Department spokesman Philip Reeker said, "We've said many times before we
have long-standing concerns about
Chinese firms selling missile-related technology to Iran...We've repeatedly
made these concerns known to the
Chinese government and we're going to continue to do so."
["Israeli Sources Say Pentagon Released China-Related Info 'To
Embarrass Baraq,' FBIS GMP20000606000134, 6 June 2000.]
6/4/00: China was reported to be assisting Iran in an advanced
surface-to-surface ballistic missile development
project. Guidance systems, missile engines, and solid fuels are among
some of the technologies transferred by
China that help Iran construct factories for missile manufacturing. In
addition, Chinese assistance with the
production of these materials is essential for Iranian development of
long-range missiles. [Ze'ev Schiff, "China Aids
Iran, Syrian 'Advanced' Ballistic Missile Projects, Israeli
Sources," FBIS GMP20000604000081, 4 June 2000.]
05/25/00: Senator Fred Thompson introduced S.2645, the China Nonproliferation Act, to the Senate. If passed the act will require the President to report on an annual basis, every person who assists in the transfer, sale or diversion of goods, services or technologies relating to nuclear, chemical or biological weapons, or ballistic missiles or cruise missiles. Presidential reports will be unclassified, but can incorporate classified annexes. The President will also be required to impose sanctions for at least a twelve month period.
2/2/00: The CIA issued a report entitled "Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions, 1 January Through 30 June 1999," which stated, "For the first half of 1999, entities in Russia and China continued to supply a considerable amount and a wide variety of ballistic missile-related goods and technology to Tehran."
2/2/00: In his statement before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, George J. Tenet, Director of Central Intelligence, stated that Iran could possibly test an ICBM capable of delivering a light payload to the US within the next few years. Tenet also expressed the fear that "some countries that we have earlier considered exclusively as weapons technology importers may step up their roles as secondary suppliers," which could complicate the compounding proliferation problem even further. Iran, it was projected, may be able to supply not only complete Scuds, but also Shahab-3s and related technology along with even more advanced technologies in the next few years if Tehran continues to receive assistance from China, Russia and North Korea. [Statement by George J. Tenet, Director of Central Intelligence, " The Worldwide Threat in 2000: Global Realities of Our National Security," Before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, 2 February 2000.]
1/11/00: Iran and North Korea are working together to improve the accuracy of the Chinese C802, an anti-missile which Tehran bought from China in the mid-1990's. In 1997 Iran bought 30-mile range C801 missiles from Beijing and received about 150 80-mile range C802s, half of the total they had ordered from China. The deal was suspended by China who was under US pressure. The longer range missiles were delivered without target designation systems, which is the reason for the recent attempts to upgrade the missiles. [Michael Evans, "Tehran Upgrades Chinese Missile," The Times (London), 11 January 2000.]
In 1990 US officials learned that China was selling C-802s to Iran along with the capability to build their own C-802 factory. The US also was able, through the use of spy cameras to witness a Chinese ship deliver the first C-802 to Iran in the fall of 1993. In 1997, under pressure from the US, China stalled deliveries and failed to live up to their promise to help Iran fix the balky launch tube doors of the C-802. All together, only 150 of the 400 missiles ordered were delivered [John Mintz, "Tracking Arms: A Study in Smoke," Washington Post, 3 April 1999. p. 3.]
11/23/99: According to American intelligence sources, the Democratic Republic of Congo has bought Scud missiles from Iran to use against rebel groups in their civil war. A small number of the missiles were exported in October. US spy agencies recently detected these Iranian Scud B and C missiles in Congo. Countries such as Iran, Pakistan, Libya and Syria have all received missile technology from Russia, China and North Korea and are now supplying missiles to other parties. Pentagon officials also fear that Iran could soon export its recently tested 700-mile range Shahab-3 missile. [Toby Harnden, "Scud Missiles Sold by Iran to aid Congo in Civil War," The Daily Telegraph (London), 23 November 1999. p. 19.]
9/22/99: The Washington Times reported that Iran has received material and technology from both China and Russia from its Shahab-3 and Shahab-4 programs. Officials also stated that assistance is expected to continue with the Shahab-5. [Bill Gertz, "Tehran Increases Range on Missiles," the Washington Times, 22 September 1999."]
8/19/99: The Washington Times reported that China signed an $11 million dollar deal with Iran to upgrade Iran's FL-10 anti-ship missile. These short-range missiles are being modified by the Chinese to by fired from Iranian attack helicopters and fast patrol boats that could threaten US or allied warships. National Security Council spokesman David Leavy, while not commenting directly on the the reported deal, stated, "We are concerned about any Chinese missile sales to Iran, and we have raised our concerns with Beijing. We will continue to make the point that military exports to Iran are potentially destabilizing in the Persian Gulf, which is not in China's interest." Both Chinese and US officials confirmed that the FL-10 export does not violate China's 1997 pledge not to export cruise missiles to Iran; this pledge only covered exports of C-801 and C-802 missiles and was never put into writing. Clinton administration officials also confirmed that the FL-10 system was not covered under the oral promises made to Defense Sec. William Cohen by Chinese President Jiang Zemin and Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotein in Jan. 1998. [Bill Gertz, "China Agrees to Deal With Iran on Missiles," The Washington Times, 19 August 1999. p. 1]
7/17/99: According to a CIA report to Congress, China is continuing to supply advanced conventional arms to Iran. "China also was an important supplier of advanced conventional weapons to Iran through the second half of 1998, but President Jiang Zemin pledged to cease supply of cruise missiles." This pledge to limit nuclear cooperation with Iran "appears to be holding," officials report. [Bill Gertz, "Rouge Nations Rely on China For Arms Parts: Russia, N. Korea also Suppliers," The Washington Times, 17 July 1999. p. 1.]
4/29/99: In testimony before a Congressional committee, John Lauder - the head of the CIA's Nonproliferation Center, described the CIA's views on recent progress and continuing concerns about China's nuclear, chemical and missile proliferation activities. He stated:
"The China story is a mixed picture. China is actively studying membership in the Missile Technology Control Regime, has promulgated controls on dual-use nuclear technology, and tightened chemical export controls. We cannot yet be certain, however, that the new export control mechanisms will be effective, and worrisome contacts continue between Chinese entities and countries of concern.Both the Chinese Government and Chinese firms have long-standing and deep relationships with proliferant countries, and we are not convinced that China's companies fully share the commitments undertaken by senior Chinese leaders. While all aspects of China's proliferation behavior bear continued watching, we see more signs of progress on nuclear and chemical matters than on missile assistance." [Unclassified Statement for the Record by Special Assistant to the DCI for Nonproliferation John A. Lauder on the Worldwide WMD Threat to the Commission to Assess the Organization of the Federal Government to Combat the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (aka The Deutsch Commission), 29 April 1999.]
Lauder also discussed the scope of Chinese assistance to Iran's missile programs. He stated:
"Foreign assistance is a fundamental factor behind the growth in the [Iranian] missile threat. For example, foreign assistance helped Iran save years in its development of the Shahab-3 missile, which is based on the North Korean No Dong and, as I noted earlier, includes Russian--and, to a lesser extent Chinese--assistance. Moreover, Iran will continue to both seek longer range missiles and foreign assistance in their development." [Unclassified Statement for the Record by Special Assistant to the DCI for Nonproliferation John A. Lauder on the Worldwide WMD Threat to the Commission to Assess the Organization of the Federal Government to Combat the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (aka The Deutsch Commission), 29 April 1999.]
1/99-6/99: Chinese and Russian entities continued to supply a considerable amount and a wide variety of ballistic missile-related goods and technology to Iran in the first half of 1999. Tehran is reportedly using these goods and technologies to support current production programs and to achieve self-sufficiency in the production of ballistic missiles. China was also a supplier of ACW to Iran through the first half of 1999. ["Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating ot Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced conventional Munitions," Nonproliferation Center; Director of Central Intelligence, 1 January - 30 June 1999, www.cia.gov/cia/publications/bian/bian_feb_2000.html]
12/8/98: Responding to a Washington Times report that China had exported telemetry equipment to Iran for the testing of Iran's new medium-range Shahab missile, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhu Bangzao said, "China's position on the export of missiles has always proceeded from being responsible for the security in the region. . .China has honored its commitments by adopting effective and strict controls and there is no such issue as proliferation."["China Mum on Missile Technology Transfer to Iran," Agence France Presse, 8 December 1998.]
8/2/98: During meetings between Jiang Zemin and Israel's Defense Minister Yitzak Mordechai in Beijing, Mordechai requested that China curb its unconventional military exports to Iran. Jiang Zemin reportedly agreed to take such steps. Mordechai stated:
"I requested from him that China refrain as much as possible from giving technological assistance to countries that are still hostile to us...Jiang said China would not help Iran develop advanced technology that could be used to make non-conventional weapons. I was impressed by his honesty on this matter...be we will continue to monitor the spread on non-conventional weapons in every way we can." [The Iran Brief, 8 September, 1998, p.4]
7/98: An unclassified CIA report on global proliferation activities was submitted to Congress in July 1998. The annual report noted that during 1997 Chinese companies "provided a variety of missile related items and assistance to countries of proliferation concern." Yet, the report confirmed that in 1997 China "apparently halted C-801/C-802 anti-ship cruise missiles to Iran as promised in late 1997."
6/16/98: A Washington Times article reported that China's Great Wall Industries Corporation was in negotiation with Iran to provide missile telemetry equipment for the Shahab-3 and Shahab-4 medium-range missile programs. In the same article, the Washington Times asserted that China has been supplying rocket motors and test equipment to assist Iran in the development of a short-range ballistic missile called NP-110. In addition, Iran has expressed interest in purchasing from China X-ray equipment to check the integrity of missile casings and solid fuel in its missile boosters. [ Bill Gertz, "China Assists Iran, Libya on Missile," Washington Times (online) 16 June 1998, pp.1-3.]
6/11/98: In testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Dr. Gordon Oehler -- former Director of the CIA's Nonproliferation Center -- stated: "With regard to missile-related transfers to Iran, the primary transfers of concern [from China] relate to guidance and control components, their production technologies and testing jigs."
3/24/98: In his testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Air Force Lt. Gen. Lester Lyles, director of the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization, publicly confirmed the existence of Iran's medium range surface-to-surface "Shahab-3 and -4" missiles, with ranges of about 800 and 1,240 miles respectively. US intelligence officials said these missiles could be deployed within two years, and both Russia and China provided technology and materials in their development. [Bill Gertz, "Pentagon Confirms Details on Iranian Missiles," Washington Times, 27 March 1998, p. A10.]
01/28/98: The Director of Central Intelligence stated:
- "Conventional arm sales have lagged in recent years, encouraging Chinese
defense industries to look to WMD technology-related sales, primarily to
Pakistan and Iran, in order to recoup. There is no question that China has
contributed to WMD advances in these countries. On the positive side, there
have recently been some signs of improvement in China's proliferation
posture. China recently enacted its first comprehensive laws governing
nuclear technology exports. It also appears to have tightened down on its
most worrisome nuclear transfers, and it recently renewed its pledge to halt
sales of anti-ship cruise missiles to Iran. But China's relations with some
proliferant countries are long-standing and deep, Mr. Chairman. The jury is
still out on whether the recent changes are broad enough in scope and
whether they will hold over the longer term. As such, Chinese activities in
this area will require continued close watching."
[Director of Central Intelligence, "Hearing on Current and Projected
National Security Threats Before the Senate Select Committee on
Intelligence," 28 January 1998.]
1/20/98: US Defense Secretary William Cohen stated that he had received personal assurances from Chinese President Jiang Zemin that China has halted all transfers of anti-ship cruise missiles to Iran, and that Beijing would not assist Iran in upgrading its current cruise missile inventory. This came after a reported similar assurance by Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian the day before. Cohen stated that "It was the very clear message that no sales will go forward, no transfers--period--to Iran. That would include those missiles that have been contracted for before." Cohen stated that Defense Minister Chi had reiterated assurances that cruise missile sales to Iran had ceased, saying, "I believe that we have assurances that such sales will not continue in the future...I am satisfied that there will not be a contribution to the kind of conventional weaponry that would jeopardize American ships in the [Persian] Gulf." However, according to the Washington Post, it was still unclear whether China had agreed to cancel existing missile contracts with Iran. According to the Defense Department, "Secretary Cohen indicated that he had received assurances during the visit that indeed they would not make any further shipments of those missiles." ["China's president assures Cohen on Iran missile sales," Reuter, 20 January 1998; John Pomfret, "Cohen Hails Achievements In China Visit," Washington Post, 20 January 1998, p. A11; Bill Gertz, "China to halt missile sales to Iran," Washington Times, 20 January 1998, p. 1; Department of Defense News Briefing, 20 January 1998.]
11/97: In its report entitled, Proliferation: Threat and Response, the US Defense Department stated: "Iran has purchased land-, sea-, and air-launched short range cruise missiles from China." [Office of the Secretary of Defense, Proliferation: Threat and Response, November 1997 (online version).]
9/23/97: During a meeting in New York, Chinese Foreign Minister told US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright that China would halt its future sales of conventional cruise missiles to Iran. US officials, including Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Robert Einhorn and National Security Council official Gary Samore, later traveled to Beijing to work out the details of the agreement. ["Cruise Missile Sales to Iran Halted," Inside China Today, 20 October 1997; NAPSNet Daily Report, 20 October 1997; "China to end cruise missile sales to Iran--U.S.," Reuter (Washington), 18 October 1997.]
9/10/97: During a press briefing, US State Department briefer James Foley stated:
- "As for China...I would only say that any missile-related cooperation with
Iran is of serious concern to the United States, and we continue to monitor
and evaluate reports of any transfer that could contribute to missile
programs of concern."
"In October of 1994, China agreed to ban all exports of MTCR Class ground-to-ground missiles. We have no evidence that China has conducted activities inconsistent with this commitment. We strongly oppose any missile cooperation with Iran and have raised these issues also with the government of China in the past, and we will continue to do so..."
"I would not say that our concerns have been allayed. Any missile cooperation with Iran is of serious and ongoing concern to the United States, and we keep these matters under intensive review. As you know, we have very clear legislation and law to apply on these matters, and we take our responsibility seriously. The threshold for applying sanctions in any of these cases is high. The law is very specific on when sanctions can be imposed. We have not made the determination, at this point, that any of the reports that we've seen are tantamount to sanctionable activity, have met the specific thresholds. The law is the law, and when we're able to make such a determination, if we are, we will apply the law." [US Department of State, daily press briefing, 10 September 1997.]
8/6/97: In response to US criticism of Chinese cruise missile sales to Iran, a senior Chinese Foreign Ministry official argued:
12/9/96: During talks between US Defense Secretary William Perry and Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian, Perry said that "even legal arms sales to Iran threaten US interests, but could also threaten China's because of China's increased dependence on oil from the Gulf...It could backfire on China" if there is conflict in the Persian Gulf region. Chi said that he "would consider this point," and that China "would always refrain from doing things that are detrimental to peace and stability" with regard to its missile sales, and that China adheres "very strictly" to the MTCR. Chi also stated that on the issue of China's weapons sales to Pakistan and Iran, "I think on some of such issues the media have blown the issue out of proportion, have exaggerated the issue...Some of the issues have been exaggerated and some of these issues simply do not exist." [Warren P. Strobel and Bill Gertz, "Chinese General Hits Arms Reports," Washington Times, 10 December 1996; "Perry Tells Chinese That Sales Of Arms To Iran Could Backfire," Associated Press, 10 December 1996; "Chi Says Chinese Arms Proliferation 'Exaggerated,'" Reuters, 9 December 1996; in Executive News Service, 9 December 1996.]
11/21/96: A Washington Times report, citing a 2 October 1996 top secret CIA report, stated that the China Precision Engineering Institute (Department) signed an agreement in August 1996 to sell about 5,000 metric tons of military equipment to a branch of Iran's Defense Industries Organization. The sale included gyroscopes, accelerometers, and test equipment which could be used to manufacture and test missile guidance components and assist Iran in upgrading its anti-ship cruise missiles. The negotiations between China Precision Engineering Institute (Department) and Iran's Defense Industries Organization for the sale apparently were conducted over two years. The report was entitled, "Arms Transfers to State Sponsors of Terrorism."
The Chinese Foreign Ministry denied the charges, stating that "This report [the Washington Times article] is purely fictitious and made out of ulterior motives...It is not worth refuting."
In response to the Washington Times report, US Defense Department spokesman Kenneth Bacon stated that "our policy on efforts by other nations to help Iran improve its military is very clear: We oppose those efforts...We think those efforts are dangerous and we think that they can lead to a less stable environment in the [Persian] Gulf." State Department deputy spokesman Glyn Davies said: "We believe at this stage that, in fact, the Chinese are operating within the assurances they have given us...We've not seen any reason to question their behavior." [Bill Gertz, "U.S. Presses Chinese On Arms Sales," Washington Times, 22 November 1996, p. A17; Bill Gertz, "China Sold Iran Missile Technology," Washington Times (online), 21 November 1996; AFP (Hong Kong), 22 November 1996; in FBIS-CHI-96-228, 22 November 1996;Carol Giacomo, Reuters, 22 November 1996; in Executive News Service, 22 November 1996.]
11/96: Iran reportedly test-fired a Chinese-built C-801 anti-ship cruise missile from one of ten Hudong missile ships received from China in Gulf exercises, according to Western military officials on 9 December 1996. Iran first test-fired a Chinese C-801 cruise missile in January 1996. ["Iran Tests Chinese Missile--Western Officials," Reuters, 9 December 1996; in Executive News Service, 9 December 1996.]
10/1/96: The Iran Brief reported that China has been exporting solid fuel rocket boosters and production technology to Iran for a new-generation Iranian missile, the Zelzal-3. [Iran Brief, 1 October 1996, p. 4.]
9/12/96: In a meeting of the House International Relations Committee, Congressman Benjamin Gilman stated that the CIA has evidence that China "has delivered dozens and perhaps hundreds" of ballistic missile guidance kits to Iran, and in testimony before the Committee Michael Eisenstadt, analyst for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, stated that China "plays an important role in Iran's ballistic missile program." [Iran Brief, 1 October 1996, pp. 2-3.]
8/96: China and Iran signed an arms agreement for $3 billion in weaponry to be transferred to Iran over the next three years, and an additional $1.5 billion in ballistic missiles, missile production equipment, electronics production equipment, and a military training package. The deal was concluded between the Defense Industries Organization of Iran and the China Precision Engineering Organization, and included gyroscopes, accelerometers, and ballistic missile test equipment. Iran will pay China over the next five years in cash and oil. The Iranian and Chinese Defense Ministers reportedly discussed the status of China's assistance with Iran's surface-to-surface missile programs. [The Iran Brief,1 October 1996, p. 4; and 5 December 1996, p. 6; Al-Sharq Al-Awsat (London), 29 August 1996; in FBIS-NES-96-169, 29 August 1996.]
7/17/96: China is assisting Iran in developing two new anti-ship cruise missiles, according to Asian-based intelligence sources. The missiles are the Karus, believed to be a modified Chinese C-801/802 cruise missile; and the FL-10, a modified Chinese FL-2 or supersonic FL-7 missile. Chinese technicians are helping Iran as "advisors" in the development of the FL-10. China Precision Machinery Import and Export Corporation (CPMIEC) manufactures the C-801/802 and the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation produces the FL-2 and Fl-7 missiles. ["China Helping Iranian Missile Developments," Jane's Defence Weekly, 17 July 1996, p. 13.]
5/12/96: Iranian news reported that Iran had launched air-to-surface missiles (ASMs) and a new long-range missile called Tondar during naval maneuvers in the northern Persian Gulf, in proximity to Iran's oil terminal on Kharg Island. The report said that the Tondar is an ASM designed to be launched by coastal batteries. Iran had previously claimed it was developing a ballistic missile called the Tondar-68, which had a reported range of approximately 700 km. The Tondar-68 program was to have benefited from Chinese and North Korean missile technology and assistance. It appears the new Tondar missile may be a derivative of the Chinese-made C-801 ASM or the more advanced C-802. The C-801 has a maximum range of 80 km, which Iran has been attempting to extend for some time. [James Bruce, Jane's Defence Weekly, 22 May 1996, p. 17.]
2/2/96: US Defense Secretary William Perry stated that US policies toward China were "not completely successful," in the aftermath of an Iranian test of a Chinese-made cruise missile. Perry stated that China was "one of the leakage points" of missile technology to Iran.
1/96: Iran first test-fired a Chinese C-801 anti-ship cruise missile. ["Iran Tests Chinese Missile--Western Officials," Reuters, 9 December 1996; in Executive News Service, 9 December 1996.]
1996: The media reported that China had transferred C-802 cruise missiles to Iran. The Clinton administration reportedly decided against imposing sanctions on China under the Iran-Iraq Arms Nonproliferation Act (P.L. 102-484), concluding that the number and type of missiles were not "destabilizing." [Shirley A. Kan, "Chinese Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction: Current Policy Issues," CRS Issue Brief, Congressional Research Service, The Library of Congress, 17 October 1996, p. 5.]
12/95: It was reported that China is supplying technical assistance to Iran's cruise missile development program, according to Middle East sources. The sources say China has provided Iran with missile navigation components, including global positioning system technology, information on propulsion techniques, and production equipment. [Flight International, 13-19 December 1995, p. 14.]
7/18/95: Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Shen Guofang said: "China has never exported any missile components or chemical weapons to Iran". [AFP (Hong Kong), 18 July 1995; in FBIS-TAC-95-004, 18 July 1995.]
7/95: China began deliveries of 10 Hudong missile boats and C-802 anti-ship missiles to Iran, according to testimony by Congressman Benjamin Gilman in a 12 September 1996 meeting of the House International Relations Committee. [The Iran Brief, 1 October 1996, p. 2.]
7/7/95: It was reported that China plans to supply Iran with scientific and technical training, expertise, and components for missile production. [Aluf Ben, Ha'Aretz (Tel Aviv), 7 July 1995, p. B1; in FBIS-NES-95-133, 7 July 1995.]
7/3/95: According to US intelligence reports, China has exported sophisticated missile guidance systems and other equipment to Iran. The equipment could enable Iran to improve the accuracy of its Scud missiles and to produce other missiles. ["Chinese Shipments Violate Controls," Jane's Defence Weekly, 1 July 1995, p. 3; Evan Medeiros, Arms Control Today, July - August 1995, p. 24.]
7/1/95: US officials confirmed that China had exported ballistic missile components to Iran, including guidance system components and rocket propellant ingredients. ["Chinese Shipments Violate Controls," Jane's Defence Weekly, 1 July 1995, p. 3.]
6/95: A CIA report indicated that China has recently transferred missile components to Iran and Pakistan in possible violation of the MTCR. If violations have occurred, the United States would be required to impose sanctions, according to US officials. The CIA report stated that over the past 12 months China delivered dozens, if not hundreds, of computerized machine tools and missile guidance systems, giving Iran the capability to increase its North Korean Scud missile accuracy and to build its own Scud-type missiles. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said China was abiding by its commitment to the MTCR and that the CIA report was "groundless." [Elaine Sciolino, New York Times, 22 June 1995, pp. A1, A7.]
6/20/95: Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Chen Jian denied a 19 June 1995 Defense News report that China sold missile technology to Iran in violation of the MTCR. An internal CIA report was said to detail the missile transfers. [Thomas Beal, UPI (Beijing); in Executive News Service, 20 June 1995.]
6/16/95: US officials said China canceled a forthcoming meeting at which the United States had planned to address concerns that China might have transferred sensitive ballistic missile technology to Iran. According to US sources, China might be providing Iran with materials, equipment, and know-how to produce medium-range ballistic missiles. A US official explained that China's assistance to Iran might be in the realm of short-range rockets not covered by the MTCR. A Defense News article claimed that the United States has strong evidence that the Chinese transferred medium-range ballistic missile technology. A US official refuted this, saying that the Defense News report "goes beyond what our current information would support." [R. Jeffrey Smith, Washington Post, 17 June 1995, p. A14.]
4/95: China apparently helped Iran develop the Oghab (Eagle) missile and a Scud-B missile production line. Chinese technicians reportedly helped Iran build facilities near the city of Semnan, 175 km east of Tehran, and further east in the Great Salt Desert near Shahroud. The technicians were seen at the facilities in 1987. The first Oghab solid-fuel artillery rocket prototypes reportedly were being produced at Semnan by late 1986. [Statement by Tom Lantos, Chairman, Subcommittee on International Security, International Organizations and Human Rights, 20 May 1993; Pamela Pohling Brown, Strategic Digest, April 1995, pp. 493-494.]
10/12/94: The London-based International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) reported that Iran has received 20 CSS-8 SSMs from China. The missile is a solid-fuel system with a 150 km (95 miles) range and 190 kg (420 lb) warhead. Iran is the first country after China to have the CSS-8. [Reuters, 12 October 1994; in Executive News Service, 12 October 1994; Defense News, 17-23 October 1994, p. 64.]
9/94: Outgoing US Central Command Chief Vice Admiral Douglas J. Katz announced that Iran has received five Hegu fast attack craft (FACs) from China, the first half of an order placed in 1992; the boats were delivered without anti-ship missiles. Talks with China for delivery of the FACs started in 1981, but due to disagreement over the type of SSM to be transferred, deliveries were deferred. China offered the C-801 cruise missile, but Iran wants the C-802, which is more advanced. Negotiations continue over the Hegu's missile complement. China contracted for 10 FACs in 1992, and the delivery date for the other five vessels has not been announced yet. [Jane's Defence Weekly, 1 October 1994, p. 6.]
7/94: US Defense Department officials stated that China is ready to deliver 10 fast-attack missile boats and an "undisclosed number" of 83 km range anti-ship missiles to Iran. [Elaine Sciolino, New York Times, 5 July 1994, p. A1.]
4/94: It was reported that China has helped Iran establish a Scud-B missile production line and assisted in the development of the Oghab (Eagle) rocket system. [Security Affairs, April 1994, p. 3.]
3/23/94: Chinese Ambassador to the United States Li Daoyu refuted charges that China is a "key proliferator of destabilizing weapons and technology" to the Middle East, and said that China is not supplying M-11 ballistic missile technology to Pakistan or M-9 ballistic missile technology to Iran. Ambassador Li also stated that China is not supplying Iran with "chemical weapons precursors." [Security Affairs, April 1994, p. 3.]
1/94: A senior US Defense Department official said that Iran would like to acquire the 120 km range C-801 sea-skimming cruise missile, and is negotiating the purchase of the EM52 rocket-propelled anti-ship mine. Iran is currently taking delivery of ten Hudong missile boats from China. [Philip Finnegan, Robert Holzer and Neil Munro, Defense News, 17 January 1994, pp. 1, 29.]
Fall 1993: Chinese ships began to deliver the first of some 400 C-802 cruise missiles to Iran; this deal also included technologies for Iran to build its own missile production facility. (This deal was subsequently cancelled in September 1997 following US pressure on China.) [John Mintz, "Track Arms: A Study in Smoke," The Washington Post, 3 April 1999, p. 3]
5/20/93: In Congressional testimony, Tom Lantos stated that China had helped Iran establish a production facility for ammonium percholate for use in missile fuel. [Statement of Tom Lantos, Chairman, Subcommittee on International Security, International Organizations and Human Rights, 20 May 1993.]
4/28/93: Tim McCarthy of the Center for Nonproliferation Studies testified to the House Foreign Affairs Committee that China has supplied Iran with technical assistance and subsystems for ballistic and cruise missile programs, including turn-key assembly/manufacturing and testing facilities. ["Testimony Of Timothy V. McCarthy, Senior Research Associate, Program For Nonproliferation Studies, Monterey Institute Of International Studies," House Foreign Affairs Committee, Subcommittee On International Security, International Organizations, And Human Rights, 28 April 1993, p. 168.]
1/8/93: Western diplomatic sources said that China is buying an unknown number of MiG-29s from Iran in exchange for Chinese missile technology and a nuclear power station. The sources said that the two countries had reached agreement on the exchange at the end of 1992 and that Iran had already delivered "some" of the MiG-29s in 1992. The aircraft being transferred are part of the 115 MiG-29 fighters and 35 civilian aircraft Iraq flew to Iran during the Gulf War. China is having problems with its 1960s version of the MiG-21 fighter, the Jian-7, and will use the engines from the MiGs to update the Jian's engines technology, closing the gap between the West and China. China is also negotiating a purchase of about 90 MiG-29 engines from Russia as a part of the Jian-7 modernization program, which according to sources, is reaching its final stage before mass production can begin. [Kyodo (Tokyo), 8 January 1993; in Proliferation Issues, 15 January 1993, p. 3.]
1/93: A senior US government official said that there is no doubt the Chinese have a program integrating Patriot technology in weapons such as the Russian designed SA-10 and SA-12 surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) that now capable of engaging targets at all altitudes, including cruise missiles. These Chinese modified missiles are expected to be offered for sale to customers such as Iran as anti-tactical ballistic missiles that have a defense penetration capability against the Patriot, and that are cheaper and superior to the Patriot.
China is also using this Patriot technology to develop a defense against the Patriot defense system. According to Tim McCarthy, such technology may include electronic or sensor jamming capabilities, and would probably utilize auxiliary propulsion to give the missile or warhead maneuver capability against a Patriot-type defensive weapon as it reenters the atmosphere.
A senior US government official commented that Iran is a likely customer for China's Patriot-like missile system. He added that Iran has an advanced nuclear program that could produce a weapon by the year 2000, and predicted that the delivery systems for those weapons would be built in North Korea and China and could be flown in Iran "by mid-decade." [David A. Fulghum, "China Exploiting U.S. Patriot Secrets," Aviation Week & Space Technology, 18 January 1993, pp. 20-21.]
1993: It was reported that China has transferred 6,500 HJ-73 anti-tank missiles to Iran. [Wendy Frieman, "China's Defence Industries," Pacific Review, Vol. 6, No. 1, 1993, p. 51.]
1993: It was reported that China has transferred 72 HY-2-FL-1 and 100 C-801 anti-ship cruise missiles, as well as 50 HQ-2J and 500 HN-5 SAMs, to Iran. [Wendy Frieman, "China's Defence Industries," Pacific Review, Vol. 6, No. 1, 1993, p. 52.]
12/92: One source stated that in the late 1980s, China transferred 100 HY-2 and 200 C-801 anti-ship cruise missiles to Iran. [Gordon Jacobs and Tim McCarthy, "China's Missile Sales--Few Changes For The Future," Jane's Intelligence Review, December 1992, p. 560.]
10/27/92: Chinese General Qin Jiwei and a high-level military delegation arrived in Iran for a four-day visit with Iranian President Rafsanjani, Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics Akbar Tarkan, chief of the Joint Staff Department of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Shabazi, and commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Major General Mohansin Rajaid. [Xinhua (Beijing), 29 October 1992; in Proliferation Issues, 30 October 1992, p. 10.]
10/92: A "senior Pentagon Asian specialist" said there are "indications" China is violating the MTCR by discussing possible M-9 and M-11 missile exports with Pakistan and Syria, and that the Pentagon is "also concerned" that China may be discussing further "nuclear missile" exports with Iran. Of the possible Syrian and Pakistani exports, the official says, "We are watching very closely." [Jane's Defence Weekly, 10 October 1992, p. 18.]
9/92: A spokesman for the Iranian Embassy in Beijing stated in September 1992 that China was "ready to dispatch" 500 M-11 missiles to Iran, and that Iranian President Rafsanjani's visit to Beijing on 9 September 1992 was to discuss bilateral issues of common concern. China reportedly decided to strike the deal on 500 M-11 missiles in response to US President George Bush's 2 September 1992 authorization of the sale of 150 F-16 combat aircraft to Taiwan. However, diplomats and observers believe that this visit, along with the sales of arms and transfer of nuclear technologies, are means of strengthening Chinese influence in Iran and Pakistan in order to counter US interests. ["Sino-Iran 'Arms Link,'" Daily Telegraph, 10 September 1992; Eric Chauvistre, Pacific Research, November 1992, pp. 17-18.]
8/92: As of August 1992, Iran had pledged over $7 billion to acquire missile technologies, nuclear technologies, and conventional weapons from China, North Korea, and Russia. [Youssef M. Ibrahim, New York Times, 8 August 1992, p. 3.]
6/92: Iran reportedly recently received a clandestine delivery of 90 M-7 (CSS-8) missiles from China. ["Sneaking In The Scuds," Newsweek, 22 June 1992, pp. 42-46.]
6/92: Despite Chinese pledges of adherence to the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), it has reportedly been actively selling weapons in the Middle East. Since pledging its adherence to the MTCR, China has exported missile-guidance technology to Iran. ["Sneaking In The Scuds," Newsweek, 22 June 1992, pp. 42-46.]
3/18/92: It was reported that China provided Iran with gyroscopes used in missile guidance systems. [Robert Shuey and Shirley A. Kan, "Chinese Missile And Nuclear Proliferation: Issues For Congress," CRS Issue Brief, 29 September 1995, p. 7.]
2/92: The Chinese have built a ballistic missile plant and a test range east of Tehran. ["Waking Up To The Iranian Nuclear Threat," Wall Street Journal (European Edition), 25 February 1992; "The Middle East Expands-Rivalry In South Central Asia," Jane's Intelligence Review, May 1992, pp. 11-12.]
1/92: According to intelligence sources, as of January 1992 Iran had enough enriched uranium to make a single nuclear warhead, but it lacked the technology to make the weapon. Iranian President Hashemi Rafsanjani is working on a long-range missile that could carry a nuclear warhead. The top-secret plan is to place Iranian nuclear warheads on a variant of the Chinese Silkworm missile. At a 26 October meeting of the Iranian National Security Council, a decision was made to pull back the Silkworms from their exposed positions along the Persian Gulf in order to prepare them for outfitting with nuclear warheads. ["An Iranian Bomb," Washington Post, 12 January 1992, pp. C7-C8.]
1991: US sources confirmed that China was supervising the construction of production facilities in Iran for HY-2 and M-series missiles. [Gordon Jacobs and Tim McCarthy, "China's Missile Sales--Few Changes For The Future," Jane's Intelligence Review, December 1992, p. 561.]
7/11/91: Iranian sources said Chinese Prime Minister Li Peng, in his July 1991 visit to Iran, agreed with Iranian President Hashemi-Rafsanjani on a comprehensive pact that would make China Iran's largest trading partner and arms supplier. As part of his visit, Li also went to military complexes north and west of Esfahan where Chinese and North Korean technicians are working with Iranians on various ballistic, surface-to-surface, and surface-to-air missile projects. Iranian sources also revealed that China will launch a communications, reconnaissance, and observation satellite for Iran. China will also meet the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps' aircraft, tank, and missile requirements. [Sawt Al-Kuwayt Al-Duwali (London), 11 July 1991, pp. 1, 4; in Proliferation Issues, 8 August 1991, pp. 19-20.]
7/10/91: According to Iranian exile sources, an Iranian scientific and technical delegation visited China and North Korea on 10 July 1991 to discuss expanding deliveries of nuclear and ballistic missile technologies. ["Unmask Saddam's Lies," Wall Street Journal, 24 July 1991, p. A10.]
5/91: The US government has concerns that China has supplied a production line in the northeastern part of Iran at Ishfahan for Chinese-designed short-range ballistic missiles. ["Iran Now Top Threat In Region," Washington Times, 30 May 1991, pp. A1, A11.]
1/21/90: China and Iran agreed on the export of M-9 missile production tooling, signed by Chinese General Jiang Xua, Deputy Director of the Commission on Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense (COSTIND). [Statement by Tom Lantos, Chairman, Subcommittee on International Security, International Organizations and Human Rights, 20 May 1993.]
1989: China sold 150-200 M-7 (CSS-8) ballistic missiles to Iran. [Iran Brief, 1 October 1996, p. 2.]
Early 1989: China began providing Iran with production technology for the Iran-130 ballistic missile. [Gordon Jacobs and Tim McCarthy, "China's Missile Sales--Few Changes For The Future," Jane's Intelligence Review, December 1992, p. 561.]
4/6/88: During a news conference, Chinese Foreign Minister Wu Xueqian stated:
1988: China and Iran signed an agreement to arm Iran's unguided sounding rockets with conventional warheads. The China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) was to provide the warheads. The agreement was canceled with the end of the Iran-Iraq war. [Gordon Jacobs and Tim McCarthy, "China's Missile Sales--Few Changes For The Future," Jane's Intelligence Review, December 1992, p. 561.]
Late 1987: China and Iran reportedly began negotiations on the sale of SRBMs, probably the M-9. According to a US State Department source, these negotiations were active as recently as July 1988. [Gordon Jacobs and Tim McCarthy, "China's Missile Sales--Few Changes For The Future," Jane's Intelligence Review, December 1992, p. 560.]
10/4/87: During a press briefing, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman stated:
[In response to a question regarding US allegations that China is transferring a second shipment of Silkworm missiles to Iran and is also selling artillery shells to Iran:] "Such allegation is totally groundless."
"The US Government knows very well where the large number of weapons in Iran come from. In spite of that, the US official went ahead and concocted and spread rumors about China sending missiles to Iran. Such practice of diverting people's attention is by no means clever." [Xinhua, 4 October 1987; in FBIS Special Memorandum, 18 December 1991.]
1987: China reportedly transferred 30 Silkworm anti-ship missiles to Iran.
1986: China reportedly transferred Silkworm anti-ship missiles to Iran.
1985: China began exporting ballistic missiles to Iran as early as 1985.
Summer 1985: Iran approached both China and North Korea to acquire missiles and missile technology. [Gordon Jacobs and Tim McCarthy, "China's Missile Sales--Few Changes For The Future," Jane's Intelligence Review, 12/92, p. 560.]
1985: China reportedly sold the production capability for the Oghab short-range tactical artillery rocket to Iran and agreed to assist Iran with the production of the rocket. [Gordon Jacobs and Tim McCarthy, "China's Missile Sales--Few Changes For The Future," Jane's Intelligence Review, December 1992, p. 560; Gary Milhollin and Gerard White, "Bombs From Beijing: A Report on China's Nuclear and Missile Exports," Wisconsin Project on Nuclear Arms Control, May 1991, p. 190.]
[CHINA'S MISSILE EXPORTS AND ASSISTANCE TO IRAN]
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