Russian Missile Experts Allegedly Visited Iran’s Military Production Facilities

Over the past year, multiple senior Russian missile experts have reportedly traveled to Iran as Tehran strengthens its defense ties with Moscow, according to a Reuters analysis of travel records and employment data.

The flight booking information was provided to the agency by hackers from the group Hooshyaran-e Vatan, who oppose the Iranian government. Those identified hold high military ranks, including two colonels and two lieutenant colonels.

According to the news agency, seven Russian weapons experts were scheduled to fly from Moscow to Tehran on two separate flights, on April 24 and September 17 last year. Passenger records confirm the second flight, though Reuters could not determine the purpose of their visit to Iran.

A senior Iranian Defense Ministry official, speaking with the agency on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Russian missile experts visited multiple Iranian missile production sites last year, including two underground facilities.

Additionally, a Western defense official, who requested anonymity, told Reuters that an unspecified number of Russian missile experts visited an Iranian missile base in September.

The media could not confirm whether the individuals mentioned by the official were the same Russians who traveled on the two documented flights.

Iran has been a key ally to Russia in its war against Ukraine, supplying Moscow with thousands of drones and missiles.

On January 17, Russian leader Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between their countries aimed at deepening cooperation across critical sectors, including defense and energy.