Web Desk – London, United Kingdom: Iran reportedly used intelligence gathered from a Chinese spy satellite to monitor and target U.S. military bases across the Middle East, according to a report by the Financial Times.
The British newspaper claimed the satellite was delivered to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force in late 2024. It was reportedly launched into orbit with Chinese assistance before being transferred to Iranian control.
According to the report, Iranian military officials used high-resolution satellite imagery to track key U.S. military installations across the region. The imagery was allegedly used for planning drone and missile operations.
The Financial Times said the satellite provided detailed surveillance of multiple strategic locations, including Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, Al-Muwaffaq Al-Salti Air Base in Jordan, areas near the U.S. Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, Erbil Airport in Iraq, military sites in Kuwait, Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti, and Duqm Airport in Oman.
The satellite was also reported to have monitored civilian infrastructure in Gulf countries, including ports, power plants, and industrial facilities in the United Arab Emirates.
The report added that the satellite has a claimed imaging resolution of around 0.5 meters, significantly more advanced than Iran’s earlier “Noor-3” satellite.
Citing sources, the Financial Times said Iran invested approximately $36.6 million in the satellite system, covering launch services, technical support, and data infrastructure.
China has rejected the allegations, stating it opposes the spread of unverified information and remains committed to promoting peace and international cooperation.
