In the current Russian Army 2023 defense exhibition held in Moscow, Iran’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces prominently showcased their latest military innovations, underlining their role as key players in the regional defense sector. Russian Defense Minister, Sergei Shoigu, inaugurated the event and was accompanied by Amir Nasirzadeh, Iran’s Deputy Chief of Staff for the Armed Forces, during a visit to Iran’s booth, a gesture highlighting the strengthening defense relationship between the two nations.
General Nasirzadeh commented, “The world is observing a shift in dynamics, with the decline of the unipolar system (led by the USA) and the rise of a multipolar one… This Exhibition provides a platform for independent nations to collaborate and align against the US and its allies who create crises.” He further emphasized, “Our collaboration with Russia is both united and strategic, with the potential to bolster security in various regions globally.”
He stated on the exhibition’s subject, “Our defense ministry will introduce key products at this event. We have substantial contributions to the defense industry and stand ready to export our defense technologies, always respecting other countries and avoiding the creation of crises.”
Iran’s booth displayed a wide range of missile and drone systems, including the Balaban, Sadid, and Ghaem guided bombs that can be deployed from drones and the AT Tofan and Ababil surface-to-surface ballistic missiles. Replicas of UAVs like Mohajer 6, Karar, Arash 2, Shahed 129, and Shahed 133 were also presented, along with equipment from the Aerospace Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, such as the Zuhair ballistic missile and the third Khordad air defense system (Iran’s equivalent to the S-300).
The exhibition serves as a promising platform for Iran and Russia to enhance their military collaboration, particularly in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. For Iran, the event not only opens doors for boosting sales of unmanned aircraft to Russia but also paves the way for future missile system transactions. With the expected lifting of restrictions in October on missile exports stemming from the nuclear agreement, Iran’s potential in this sector is likely to expand.
Iran Dossier In the current Russian Army 2023 defense exhibition held in Moscow, Iran’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces prominently showcased…