The Ukraine conflict has taken a dangerous turn with the revelation that Iran has provided ballistic missiles to Russia. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed this alarming development, stating that Russia is poised to utilize these missiles in their ongoing war against Ukraine within weeks. This transfer represents a significant escalation in Iran’s support for Russia’s war effort and has drawn international condemnation.
In response to this grave development, the US Treasury and State Departments have imposed sanctions on nine Russian-flagged vessels responsible for transporting Iranian weapons to Russia, along with additional measures against Iranian airlines and companies. These sanctions aim to freeze any US-based assets and prohibit Americans from engaging in transactions with the targeted entities.
The provision of ballistic missiles by Iran to support Russia’s war against Ukraine poses a serious threat to European and global security. Ukrainian officials have expressed their deep concern, calling upon the international community to exert pressure on Tehran and Moscow to prevent further escalation.
Adding to the mounting concerns are reports that dozens of Russian military personnel have undergone training in Iran to operate the Fath-360 missile system, raising fears about their imminent deployment on the Ukrainian battlefield.
The Fath-360, also known as Fateh-360, is a short-range ballistic missile developed by Iran. It is known for its precision and rapid deployment capabilities, designed for tactical strikes against military and infrastructure targets. The missile’s specifications include:
*
Launch weight:
787 kilogrammes*
Warhead weight:
150 kilogrammes*
Range:
Approximately 120 to 300 kilometres*
Flight speed:
Mach 3 to Mach 4*
Guidance system:
A combination of inertial guidance and satellite navigation*
Accuracy:
30 metres CEP (Circular Error Probable)*
Deployment:
Launched from a truck-mounted Transporter Erector Launcher (TEL)The missile’s compact design allows multiple missiles to be mounted on a single launcher, making it difficult for air defense systems to intercept. Its solid-fuel engine enables rapid launches, further contributing to its effectiveness on the battlefield. The Fath-360’s mobility and effectiveness share similarities with the US HIMARS system, though the Fath-360 carries a larger warhead and has a longer range.
Military analysts believe the Fath-360 poses a substantial threat to Ukrainian forces due to its range and precision. With a maximum range of 121 kilometres, the missile allows Russian forces to target Ukraine’s frontline positions and cities. Its smaller size and maneuverability enhance its survivability, as it can be launched quickly and evade countermeasures.
Russia’s reliance on Iranian military technology highlights a deepening cooperation between the two nations, particularly in military and nuclear technology exchanges. This cooperation is a two-way street, with Russia providing Iran access to its GLONASS satellite navigation system, reportedly used in Iranian strikes on US bases.
Despite mounting evidence, Iran continues to deny allegations of supplying ballistic missiles to Russia. Iranian officials dismiss these reports as propaganda aimed at diverting attention from Western arms transfers to Israel. However, Ukrainian officials remain skeptical, with some experts suggesting that larger, more potent missiles like the Fateh-110 could be part of the deliveries.
The introduction of Iranian ballistic missiles into the Ukrainian conflict intensifies the war and presents new challenges for Ukraine’s defense strategies. Ukraine is exploring the possibility of using US-supplied weapons to strike Russian-held areas within Ukraine and potentially deeper into Russian territory.
