On Thursday, the U.S. State Department announced sanctions against a Chinese research institute and several companies linked to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.

In a similar move, three companies based in China were sanctioned in October 2023 for providing missile-related materials to Pakistan.

According to Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry collaborated with Pakistan to acquire equipment for testing rocket motors for the Shaheen-3 and Ababeel systems, as well as potentially for larger systems.

The sanctions also included China-based firms Hubei Huachangda Intelligent Equipment Co, Universal Enterprise, and Xi’an Longde Technology Development Co, in addition to Pakistan-based Innovative Equipment and a Chinese individual, for knowingly transferring equipment in violation of missile technology regulations, Miller stated.

“These actions illustrate the United States’ commitment to countering proliferation and related procurement activities of concern, regardless of their location,” Miller added.

The embassies of China and Pakistan in Washington have not yet responded to requests for comment.