According to officials from a western nation that regularly watches Iran's weapons programme, Iran is getting ready to deploy over 1,000 more weapons, including surface-to-surface short-range ballistic missiles and more attack drones, to Russia for use in its conflict with Ukraine.
It would be the first time that Iran sent highly advanced precision guided missiles to Russia, which might offer the Russian military a significant advantage. As a result, the cargo is being closely watched.
Iran's contribution to Russia's military effort would significantly expand with the arrival of this upcoming shipment. Although it is unknown exactly when the shipment will arrive in Russia, officials are confident that the weapons will be delivered before the year is over.
Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in late February, drones have been a crucial factor in the conflict, but their deployment has risen since the summer, when the US and Kiev claim Moscow obtained drones from Iran. These Iranian drones have recently been used to attack vital Ukrainian energy facilities.
On October 17, 2022, in the midst of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Ukrainian firefighters work on a demolished building in Kyiv following a drone attack.
There is "abundant proof," according to the US State Department, that Russia is utilising Iranian drones in Ukraine.
Due to their ability to circle for some time in an area that has been flagged as a prospective target and only strike once an enemy asset has been located, Iranian drones are known as "loitering munition."
They are lightweight, portable, and simple to launch, but their greatest benefit is that they may be shot from a distance and are imperceptible.
Additionally, according to US claims, Iran sent military personnel to Crimea to support Russian drone attacks on Ukrainian targets.
It seems possible that sending more Iranian weapons to Russia will worsen the country's relations with the US. The Biden administration would not "spend our time" on talks to resuscitate the nuclear deal, according to US envoy to Iran Rob Malley, who declared this on Monday. The US has increased sanctions against Iran as a result of Tehran's backing of Russia in the conflict in the Ukraine and its suppression of nationwide demonstrations following the killing of Mahsa Amini, 22, in September.
The National Security Council's media coordinator John Kirby stated earlier this month that the presence of Iranian personnel was proof of Tehran's active involvement in the fighting.
