Iran to Supply Russia with Hundreds of Ballistic Missiles

Iran is preparing to deliver hundreds of ballistic missiles to Russia, as confirmed by multiple intelligence sources, as reported by Reuters. According to European intelligence officials, Russian military personnel have been trained in Iran on the use of the Fath-360 close-range ballistic missile system. The training is expected to lead to the imminent delivery of these weapons to Russia.

The Fath-360 system, developed by Iran’s Aerospace Industries Organization (AIO), has a maximum range of 120 kilometers (75 miles) and a warhead weighing 150 kilograms. This move is part of a broader strategic partnership between Iran and Russia, which includes various forms of military cooperation.

The contract for the Fath-360 and another missile system, the Ababil, was reportedly signed in December 2023. This cooperation aims to enhance Russia’s capabilities in its ongoing invasion of Ukraine by allowing it to conserve its existing missile arsenal for longer-range targets while utilizing Iranian systems for closer engagements.

The US National Security Council has stated that the United States, along with NATO and G7 allies, is prepared to respond strongly if Iran proceeds with these missile transfers.

Iran’s permanent mission to the United Nations has asserted that while Tehran maintains a strategic partnership with Russia, it has not yet transferred any missiles to Russia.

The White House has not confirmed the specifics of the missile delivery or training but has highlighted concerns over the potential implications of such transfers. A senior Iranian official, who chose to remain anonymous, reiterated that Iran has engaged in the sale of missiles and drones to Russia but denied the transfer of Fath-360 missiles.