Iran likely plans to supply Russia with several advanced weapons systems based on information shared by Iranian and Russian sources, alongside corroborating evidence from military intelligence and media reports. A significant claim emerged on January 1, 2025, when the Iranian Telegram channel Military Fact suggested that trucks loaded with “Arman SAM launchers” were at the port of Bandar-e-Anzali. Additional reports indicated these trucks might instead contain Fath-360 satellite-guided tactical ballistic missiles, furthering speculation about Iran’s intention to export its military technology to Russia.
On January 2, 2025, this channel provided further clarification, identifying the “Arman air defense system” and the possibility of related missile technology shipments. Other proposed exports included the Raad-2 electro-optical system, capable of detecting targets up to 80 kilometers away, and launch platforms for the Fateh family of ballistic missiles. These systems highlight Iran’s technological sophistication and its strategy of leveraging missile and drone technology to strengthen alliances and exert influence.
Verification of this transfer is ongoing. Some images circulating as evidence are archival, but their use underscores the strategic interest in such shipments. Iranian advances in drones and missiles have established it as a global leader in UAV technology, even amidst sanctions. For instance, Iran has developed systems like the Shahed-136, utilized in conflicts such as the Ukraine war, further demonstrating the robustness of its military-industrial base.
Iran’s alignment with Russia in military exchanges reflects its broader geopolitical strategy, bolstered by domestic production and reverse engineering capabilities, which enable it to export advanced weaponry to allies and proxies.
Based on the data shared and supplemental sources, here are the detailed specifications of the weapons allegedly associated with Iranian-Russian military cooperation:
1. Arman Air Defense System:
Missile Range: 86 km for the standard version, 60 km for the OP missile variant.
Missile Length: 3786 mm (standard), 3716 mm (OP variant).
Missile Mass: 240 kg (standard), 230 kg (OP variant).
Warhead Mass: 45 kg (standard), 35 kg (OP variant).
Role: Short-to-medium range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system for defense against low-altitude threats.
2. Fath-360 Missiles (Part of the Fateh Family):
Type: Satellite-guided tactical short-range ballistic missile (SRBM).
Range: Up to 200-300 km.
Payload: Approximately 150 kg.
Features: High precision due to satellite guidance and the potential for cluster or high-explosive warheads.
Applications: Targeting tactical-level objectives, including enemy troop formations, logistics, and high-value infrastructure.
3. Raad-2 Electro-Optical Tracker:
Target Detection Range: ~80 km.
Tracking Range: >50 km.
Functionality: Enhances missile and air defense system accuracy by providing optical target acquisition and real-time data relay.
4. Shahed 136 UAV (Reportedly used by Russia in Ukraine):
Type: One-way attack (loitering munition).
Range: ~2,500 km.
Payload: 30-50 kg warhead.
Features: GPS guidance and autonomous targeting capabilities.
5. Launchers for Fateh Ballistic Missiles:
Type: Mobile launch platforms capable of rapid deployment and quick reload.
Mobility: High, using trucks or tracked platforms for battlefield flexibility.
