Military cooperation between Iran and Russia
Iran has earned billions of dollars by supplying weapons to the Kremlin, having signed key agreements before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The total amount spent by Moscow on Iranian military equipment since the end of 2021 has exceeded 4 billion dollars. These agreements have become an important factor in the military relations between Iran and Russia.
The procurement agreements were formalized in October 2021. The agreements included:
- hundreds of short-range ballistic missiles Fath-360,
- about 500 other ballistic missiles,
- about 200 anti-aircraft missiles.
These supplies have laid the foundation for further military cooperation between the two countries.
In addition, a contract for the production of drones on the domestic market was signed in early 2023 for a sum of 1.75 billion dollars. The arrival of additional batches of equipment is expected to continue strengthening military cooperation. The missile component of the agreements is valued at nearly 3 billion dollars, highlighting the significance of this cooperation for both countries.
The impact on international relations
The military cooperation between Iran and Russia indicates an intensification of strategic ties between these countries amid global political changes. The increasing expenses of Moscow on Iranian military equipment indicate Russia's dependence on external arms suppliers, which may affect its military capabilities under international sanctions.
These agreements may also have significant implications for security in the region, as the increase in military potential of both countries may alter the balance of power in ongoing conflicts today.