Senior Russian missile specialists have been traveling to Iran to bolster defense cooperation amidst escalating tensions with Israel. The travelers, identified via official records as high-ranking military personnel, visited Iranian missile production sites including underground facilities. The situation highlights the deepening military partnership between Russia and Iran, which also has ramifications for other geopolitical situations, notably Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Expert Russian missile specialists traveled to Iran over the past year as the nation enhanced its military collaboration with Russia. Travel records indicate that seven high-ranking military personnel, versed in air defense, rocketry, and artillery, were booked on flights from Moscow to Tehran on April 24 and September 17. Six of these individuals possessed official state passports, which are typically granted to government officials and military members engaged in overseas duties.
An Iranian defense official disclosed that these experts visited Iranian missile production sites, including clandestine facilities, during their visits last year. A Western defense official corroborated reports of Russian specialists at an Iranian missile base near the Caspian Sea in September. Nonetheless, it remains unclear if these representatives were part of the aforementioned flight attendees.
The seven Russian experts identified are predominantly decorated military officials, including two colonels and two lieutenant-colonels. They possess expertise in various military fields, including advanced weapon systems and missile testing. The employment status of these experts is unclear as the records span from 2021 to 2024, and their trips coincided with Iran’s rising tensions with Israel, marked by escalating military confrontations.
When approached by reporters, five of the seven denied visiting Iran or their military affiliations, while one declined to comment and another hung up. Neither Iranian officials nor the Russian defense ministry provided feedback regarding these inquiries. Current collaborations between Russia and Iran, which include a recently signed military pact, have already impacted the dynamics of Russia’s engagement in Ukraine, particularly concerning drone deployments.
The revelations about the Russian specialists originated from information provided to Reuters by an activist hacking group, Hooshyaran-e Vatan, who asserted that these individuals traveled with VIP status. The details were verified against a passenger manifest for one flight, although complete validation for the earlier journey was unattainable. Specific personnel involved were identified based on military and tax records, underscoring their roles in various branches of military development and operations.
The arrival of Russian missile experts in Iran exemplifies the strengthening defense ties between the two countries amid their evolving military landscape. This cooperation occurs simultaneously as Iran faces increasing tensions with Israel, highlighting the strategic significance of such partnerships. While the confirmed details regarding their activities remain limited, the involvement of senior military personnel indicates a deeper collaborative military strategy. Furthermore, this relationship has implications not just for regional security but also affects broader geopolitical dynamics, including the ongoing conflict involving Ukraine.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
