Russia helps Iran's drones bypass air defenses, Western intel reveals details
Photo: Iran strikes UAE with drones (photo: Getty Images)
Russia is assisting Iran with drone tactics tested during the war in Ukraine to strike targets in the United States and the Persian Gulf countries, CNN reports.
According to a Western intelligence official, the Shahed drones unexpectedly successfully passed through the air defense systems of the Persian Gulf countries.
The news outlet notes that it has been reported that Russian intelligence provides Iran with general assistance in targeting, but specific tactical advice is a new level of support.
"What was more general support is now getting more concerning, including UAS [drone] targeting strategies that Russia employed in Ukraine," the intelligence official says.
CNN recalls that although the interlocutor did not disclose details of the aggressor country's tactical assistance, in Ukraine, “Shahed” drones were used in waves, with several drones flying together and regularly changing course to avoid air defense systems.
Middle East conflict
Since February 28, the US and Israel have been conducting a military operation against Iran called Epic Fury. In response, the Iranian regime is striking countries in the Middle East. Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Jordan, Azerbaijan, and even Türkiye have been attacked.
In particular, on March 9, the Turkish Ministry of Defense reported that NATO air defense systems had intercepted a ballistic missile launched from Iran that had entered the country's airspace.
Its fragments fell on uninhabited territory near Gaziantep, with no casualties or damage. This is the second such incident: a similar missile interception occurred on March 4.
In addition, a British military base in Cyprus was attacked, causing serious concern in Europe and forcing allies to prepare for a possible escalation of the situation.
In a recent interview with The New York Times, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine had sent interceptor drones and a team of experts to protect US military bases in Jordan.
