Iranian Vessels Transport Missile Fuel Ingredient from China

Two vessels sailing under the Iranian flag, the Golbon and the Jairan, have been identified as carrying sodium perchlorate, a chemical essential for producing missile propellant, from China to Iran.

According to a report by the Financial Times (FT), the containership Golbon and the general cargo vessel Jairan are transporting a combined shipment of approximately 1,000 tons of sodium perchlorate. This chemical is used to create ammonium perchlorate, which comprises 70% of the solid fuel used in missiles.

Unnamed officials told the FT that the Golbon departed China’s Daishan Island with 34 containers and was tracked near Ningbo on January 22. The second vessel, Jairan, is set to carry the remaining 22 containers and is expected to leave China in early February. Both ships will complete the three-week voyage to Iran without intermediate stops.

The reported shipment could produce enough propellant for approximately 260 mid-range missiles.

China has denied any involvement in or knowledge of the shipments. In response to the FT's inquiries, Chinese officials emphasized that the country adheres to export control regulations and fulfills its international responsibilities.

As of now, it remains unclear if the Chinese companies linked to the shipment of this restricted chemical will face U.S. sanctions. The U.S. State Department has yet to comment on the situation.