Rocket launcher deal illustrates deepening Russia-Iran relations — SkimNews
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- Russia agreed to supply Iran with 90 advanced missile launchers in 2024, according to documents from a major Russian defense manufacturer, with the weapons designed for Mi-28 attack helicopters Iran already operates
- Iran is acquiring Russian Su-35 fighter jets, army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia confirmed, marking another major arms purchase as military collaboration with Russia expands
- Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, met Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin to discuss a strategic cooperation treaty and regional security arrangements, including Russia’s support for ending U.S. 'aggression' against Iran
- Russia and Iran signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty in January 2025 that took effect in October, covering military cooperation, trade, science, and education, though it lacks a mutual defense clause
- Western intelligence officials warn that Russia-Iran military ties have deepened amid the war in Ukraine and U.S. actions in the Middle East, countering claims by Donald Trump that Moscow provides little support to Tehran
- The LMUR (Izdeliye 305), a precision-guided missile used on the supplied launchers, entered Russian military service in 2022 and has been widely deployed in Ukraine, indicating the advanced capability being transferred to Iran
Why it matters: Iran gains access to advanced Russian missile systems and fighter jets, enhancing its military reach, while Russia strengthens a key sanctions-busting alliance without triggering a mutual defense commitment—altering regional power dynamics as both bypass Western restrictions and deepen operational coordination.
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