China’s ineffective air defence system responsible for Khamenei’s death

China’s faulty air defence system allegedly led to the killing of Khamenei

New Delhi – It has reportedly emerged that China’s HQ-9B air defence system, described as ineffective, failed to protect Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his family, allegedly resulting in their deaths. Reports claim that the system collapsed completely under intense strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, exposing major shortcomings in China’s defence technology.

1. The Chinese defence system had reportedly failed on earlier occasions as well. During action taken by the United States against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January, the same system was said to have proven ineffective.

2. Earlier, during India’s military action against Pakistan under Operation Sindoor, Pakistan had deployed the HQ-9B system purchased from China; however, it reportedly failed to withstand Indian fighter aircraft operations. During the 4-day conflict, India’s S-400 air defence system is said to have shot down 5 to 6 aircrafts of the Pakistani Air Force, including one surveillance aircraft.