China has reportedly deployed a naval contingent led by a Type 055 destroyer to the Gulf of Oman and northern Indian Ocean amid rising tensions over a potential Western strike on Iran.

Axar.az reports, citing Military Watch Magazine, that the deployment is said to include a Type 052D destroyer and the intelligence-gathering vessel Liaowang-1.

The move comes as the United States and its allies reportedly weigh military options against Tehran, fueling speculation that Beijing aims to monitor Western naval activity and share intelligence with Iran.

Chinese sources also released satellite images of a U.S. THAAD missile defense system positioned at Muwaffaq Al Salti Air Base in Jordan, signaling Beijing’s capacity to track American deployments. The Type 055’s advanced dual-band radar systems and the Liaowang-1’s surveillance capabilities could potentially provide targeting and early-warning data, reducing the element of surprise in any Western strike and strengthening Iran’s retaliatory posture.

Analysts suggest the presence of Chinese warships could deter direct targeting of Chinese assets while allowing Beijing to gain operational experience in a high-tension environment. Rеports also reference past instances of Chinese intelligence support to partners, including Pakistan, raising speculation that similar assistance to Iran — particularly in satellite navigation and missile support — could significantly enhance Tehran’s defensive and offensive capabilities.