China Provides Stealth Aircraft Hunting Radar, BeiDou Satellite Link to Iran

China has reportedly launched a program to bolster Iran’s defense systems after 2025-2026 security gaps were identified, including delivery of the YLC-8B radar and expanded satellite navigation and cybersecurity cooperation.

In January 2026, reports indicated rapid deployment of Chinese military transport aircraft, possibly up to 16 planes, and landing in Iran within a 56-hour period. The flights reportedly took place during a period of restricted Iranian airspace, often with aircraft transponders turned off to mask movements.

According to information published by Russian Arms Telegram channel, a central component of the latest cooperation between the countries is the deployment of the YLC-8B radar system. The radar is designed to detect targets with a radar cross-section of one square meter at ranges between 270 and 330 kilometers. It is also capable of detecting aircraft such as the F-35A Lightning II at distances exceeding 200 kilometers.

The system can be deployed or dismantled in under 30 minutes, a feature intended to reduce vulnerability to anti-radiation missile strikes.

The YLC-8B will operate as part of an integrated air and missile defense network rather than as a standalone asset. It is expected to provide target designation data to long-range surface-to-air missile systems, including the Russian-made S-300PMU-2 and China’s HQ-9P. Engagement radars such as the 30N6E2 and HT-233 would then conduct sector-specific illumination and tracking, expanding surveillance coverage and reducing response times.

Beyond radar deployment, the cooperation framework includes joint cybersecurity and intelligence operations focused on investigating cyberattacks and protecting critical infrastructure and government networks.

China is also supporting Iran’s efforts to replace Western software and hardware with Chinese alternatives as part of an import substitution strategy in the information technology sector.

Another component involves navigation systems. Iran is expected to transition from the U.S.-operated Global Positioning System to China’s BeiDou for military and sensitive civilian applications. The shift is intended to ensure operational continuity in the event of GPS disruption or interference.