In a notable move strengthening military cooperation between Iran and Russia, it has been revealed by multiple sources that Iran has provided Russia with a significant quantity of potent surface-to-surface ballistic missiles.
Reports suggest that approximately 400 missiles, primarily from the Fateh-110 family, including the Zolfaghar variant, have been transferred. These missiles, renowned for their short-range capabilities and mobility, boast a striking range of 300 to 700 kilometers.
The deliveries commenced early this year following finalized agreements reached during meetings between Iranian and Russian military officials in Tehran and Moscow late last year.
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Despite inquiries, neither Iran’s defense ministry nor the Revolutionary Guards overseeing the ballistic missile program have offered comments. Similarly, Russia’s defense ministry has remained silent on the matter.
An Iranian military official, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that at least four shipments have occurred, with expectations of more shortly.
While specifics regarding the transportation methods were not divulged, it was mentioned that some missiles were transported via ship through the Caspian Sea, while others were airlifted.
Addressing concerns about transparency, a second Iranian official stated, “There is no reason to hide it. We are allowed to export weapons to any country that we wish to.”
This development comes against the backdrop of expired U.N. Security Council restrictions on Iran’s missile exports, though the United States and European Union have maintained sanctions on Iran’s ballistic missile program.
John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House national security, voiced apprehensions in early January regarding Russia’s potential acquisition of such weapons from Iran. However, neither the Pentagon nor the Russian authorities have provided official comments on the reported deliveries.
Geopolitical tensions further intensify as Russia faces accusations of acquiring missiles from North Korea. Jeffrey Lewis, an expert with the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, underscored the precision of the Fateh-110 family, noting their potential impact on high-value targets.
If utilized, the reported 400 missiles could significantly affect the ongoing conflict, though the severity of their use remains uncertain.