Russia may send drones to support Iran: Report
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Russia reportedly preparing drone shipments to Iran alongside humanitarian aid.
- Moscow has provided satellite imagery and targeting intelligence to Tehran.
- Iran relies heavily on low-cost attack drones in ongoing war.
Western intelligence reports suggest that Russia is close to completing gradual shipments to Iran that include drones, medicines, and food supplies, aiming to bolster Tehran amid the ongoing war, according to Financial Times.
Drone support and logistics
Sources cited by the newspaper said senior Russian and Iranian officials have begun secret discussions over the delivery of drones, following a series of US and 'Israeli' strikes on Tehran that began on February 28. Preparation of shipments reportedly started in early March, with expected completion by month’s end.
Read more: Russia rains almost 1,000 drones on Ukraine
'Israel' reportedly targeted a key military corridor linking Russia and Iran through the Caspian Sea last week, reflecting heightened tension over military supply lines.
Intelligence and military aid
Moscow has also provided intelligence support, including satellite imagery and targeting data, signaling involvement beyond simple logistical aid and extending to political stabilization of the Iranian regime, according to a Western official.
Read more: Russia pulls more staff from Iran nuclear plant after air strike
The proposed drone shipments would be the first sign of direct Russian military support for Iran since the war began, despite Kremlin denials. Russian Presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed reports as “many false stories” while confirming continued dialogue with Iranian leadership.
Meanwhile, Moscow announced humanitarian aid shipments to Iran, including over 13 tons of medicines, with plans to continue deliveries.
Drone reliance and production
Iran has heavily relied on low-cost attack drones, deploying more than 3,000 since the conflict started. Russia has also intensified drone production since 2023, based on Iranian designs, adapting them for higher payloads and improved air defense evasion for its war in Ukraine.
Although Russia and Iran signed a strategic partnership agreement last year, neither is formally obligated to defend the other’s interests, analysts note.
The move underscores the growing entanglement of Moscow in Middle Eastern conflicts and signals potential escalation if drone transfers proceed.
