Reuters reported that Iran is preparing to transfer Fath-360 short-range ballistic missile launchers to Russia in the coming time, according to information from two Western security officials and a regional official.
If the transition takes place, it will be the next step in the increasingly deepening security relationship between Moscow and Tehran, and at the same time support Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Fath-360 missile has a range of about 120 km, helping Russian forces target frontline military targets and residential areas near the border with Russia. According to experts, this type of missile has a short flight time and does not require much preparation before launching, making it easy for Russia to attack high-value targets in a short time, while simultaneously releasing longer-range missiles such as Iskander for other strategic attacks.
Previously, in September last year, the US said that Iran had transferred Fath-360 missiles to Russia on 9 Russian-flagged vessels, but not with launchers. Currently, these launchers are being prepared for additional handover.
Some sources said the process was delayed due to indirect nuclear talks between the US and Iran via Oman. However, some analysts say Tehran considers the provision of weapons to Russia a completely separate issue from nuclear negotiations.
Iran has had to improve commercial trucks manufactured in Europe to serve as launchers for the Fath-360 in its domestic arsenal and may be doing the same to accommodate Russia's vehicle shortage in Ukraine, according to Reuters.
Although Russia and Iran have denied that Tehran has sent weapons to Moscow, Western, Ukrainian and European officials have confirmed that Iran has provided thousands of drones and artillery shells to Russia. Recently, a US general confirmed that Iran has transferred more than 400 short-range ballistic missiles to Russia.
The deployment of the Fath-360 could complicate President Donald Trump's efforts to promote a ceasefire and initiate peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, as well as private talks with Iran on its nuclear program. Although the Fath-360 does not carry large warheads and is not highly accurate, their appearance will significantly increase pressure on Ukraine's defense system.
