Iran doubles production of ballistic missiles and drones after agreement with Russia - Reuters
Photo: Iran increased the production of weapons with the support of the Russian Federation (Getty Images)
Iran significantly expanded two key ballistic missile production facilities after an October 2022 agreement, under which Tehran reportedly agreed to supply missiles to Russia, Reuters informs.
According to the agency's report, the Iranian arsenal is currently the largest in the Middle East, estimated at more than 3000 missiles. This weaponry includes modifications designed to carry conventional and nuclear warheads.
Satellite imagery shows more than 30 new structures at the Modarres military base in March and the Khojir production complex in April.
The images show numerous structures surrounded by large earthen berms. Experts associate these berms with missile production, likely intended to prevent explosions in one building from affecting adjacent structures.
According to three Iranian officials speaking to Reuters, the facilities in the images are expanding to increase ballistic missile production. Some of the new buildings will also double the production of drones.
It is probable that the drones and missile components manufactured there will be sold to Russia, with some drones possibly being transferred to the Houthis and missiles to Hezbollah.
Cooperation between Russia and Iran
From the early months of the full-scale invasion, Iran has been a key ally supporting Russia's actions in Ukraine. Specifically, Tehran has supplied Moscow with kamikaze drones, which Russia have been using to attack Ukraine since the autumn of 2022.
Additionally, Iran has developed a new "explosive" drone, Shahed-107, for Russia, which Moscow may deploy against Ukraine. The agency also notes that Iran is close to providing the aggressor country with ground-to-ground missiles.
