The Merchant of Missiles

<p><strong>The Merchant of Missiles: Li Fangwei's Secret War</strong> is a gripping exposé into one of the most elusive and dangerous figures in modern arms proliferation. At the heart of this story is Li Fangwei also known as Karl Lee-a Chinese businessman turned international fugitive who supplied Iran with critical missile components all while weaving a complex web of deceit that confounded some of the world's most powerful governments.</p><p>Operating from the shadows Li evaded dozens of sanctions and built an empire through front companies secret transactions and high-level protection. Despite an FBI bounty of $5 million and years of international pursuit he managed to stay one step ahead highlighting the failures of global enforcement mechanisms and the vulnerabilities of international trade.</p><p>This book delves into Li's origins in Heilongjiang Province his rise as the head of LIMMT and the calculated moves that enabled him to become the go-to supplier for Iran's growing missile program. Through detailed research insider intelligence and declassified material readers are taken on a journey through global supply chains corporate camouflage and geopolitical manipulation. The narrative uncovers how advanced materials engineering precision and financial trickery all played a role in shaping one of the most dangerous illegal networks of the 21st century.</p><p>More than a biography <em>The Merchant of Missiles</em> is a case study in modern proliferation where economic ambitions clash with international law and rogue actors exploit every loophole available. It explores the broader implications for international security U.S.-China relations and Middle Eastern military power balances.</p><p>Was Li merely a resourceful rogue or a protected state asset? Why did Beijing never bring him to justice? And what does his case tell us about the future of international arms control?</p><p>An essential read for those interested in global security intelligence operations sanctions evasion and the dark arts of international trade.</p>