Russia to buy ballistic missiles from Iran, North Korea already transfers them to Russia - WSJ
Russia to buy ballistic missiles from Iran, North Korea already transfers them to Russia (Getty Images)
Russia is reportedly planning to purchase short-range ballistic missiles from Iran, with deliveries possibly taking place as early as this spring, according to The Wall Street Journal.
One of the American officials said that the U.S. is concerned that Russian negotiations for the acquisition of short-range ballistic missiles from Iran are actively progressing.
Sources also suggest that Tehran may supply the missiles to Russia as early as this spring. However, officials do not consider the deal to be finalized.
According to U.S. officials, Russia's interest in acquiring the missiles became evident in mid-December when a Russian delegation visited an Iranian facility to familiarize themselves with the missiles and related equipment.
The WSJ reports that the Russian delegation presented missiles, including short-range Ababil missiles, from the Aerospace Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran.
Shoigu's visit to Iran
The visit occurred following the arrival of Russia's Minister of Defense, Sergei Shoigu, to the headquarters of the Aerospace Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Tehran. He inspected an exhibition of Ababil missiles and other missile systems during the visit.
Shoigu also met with the Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Mohammad Bagheri, and declared the development of Russian-Iranian relations.
Assistance not only from Iran
As U.S. officials point out, Iran's missiles will complement Russia's recent acquisitions, which include receiving ballistic missile launchers and several dozen ballistic missiles from North Korea.
Russia-Iran cooperation
Russia actively uses Iranian Shahed drones for attacks on Ukraine. Initially, both countries denied their collaboration, despite numerous evidence, but in November 2022, Tehran changed its position and acknowledged its involvement.
Moreover, the countries recently agreed to counter Western sanctions. Russia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sergey Lavrov, described this as an important step in enhancing coordination efforts among members of the global community to overcome illegal sanctions.
It was revealed in November that Russia is constructing a factory to produce Shahed drones.
