ISLAMABAD: Iran allegedly used a Chinese-built satellite to monitor and target US military bases in the Middle East, according to a report by the Financial Times.
The satellite, named TEE-01B, was launched from China in late 2024 and later acquired by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force. The report, based on leaked Iranian military documents, claims that Iranian commanders used the satellite to track US military sites.
The satellite reportedly captured images before and after drone and missile strikes on targeted locations. These included Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, areas near the US Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain, and locations around Erbil airport in Iraq. As part of the arrangement, the IRGC is said to have gained access to commercial ground stations operated by Beijing-based Emposat, which provides satellite control and data services globally.
Reuters could not independently verify these claims. US authorities, including the White House, CIA, and Pentagon, have not responded to requests for comment. Chinese officials have denied the allegations, calling them speculative and misleading. The report also notes that US President Donald Trump recently warned China of consequences if it provided military support to Iran.
According to the Financial Times, the satellite monitored key locations in March, around the same time Iran claimed responsibility for attacks on US-linked facilities in the region.
