Russia’s acquisition of Iranian ballistic missiles marks a significant shift in its tactical approach to the Ukraine conflict, potentially increasing the threat level on the front lines.
At a Glance
- Iran has provided Russia with Fath 360 close-range ballistic missiles, with a range of about 75 miles
- Russia could employ these missiles against Ukraine within weeks
- The U.S. and its partners have committed over $55.9 billion in security assistance to Ukraine
- Iran’s missile deliveries to Russia may be linked to acquiring Russian military technology
- The use of Iranian missiles could free up Russian missiles for other targets, increasing overall missile volume and flexibility
Russia’s New Tactical Advantage
The Russian military has acquired a new weapon in its arsenal against Ukraine: Iranian-made ballistic missiles. The Pentagon has confirmed that Iran has transferred shipments of Fath 360 close-range ballistic missiles to Russia, which could be deployed against Ukrainian targets in the coming weeks. This development represents a significant escalation in the conflict and showcases the deepening military cooperation between Russia and Iran.
“The United States has confirmed reports that Iran has transferred shipments of Fath 360 close-range ballistic missiles to Russia, which we assess could employ them within weeks against Ukraine, leading to the deaths of even more Ukrainian civilians,” Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said.
The introduction of these missiles allows Russia to target front-line positions with cheaper weapons, conserving more expensive precision-guided missiles for other strategic targets. This tactical adaptation could potentially increase the threat level faced by Ukrainian forces and civilians alike.
Western Response and Ukraine’s Defense
In response to the evolving threat, the United States and its allies have been focusing on bolstering Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. Since the Russian invasion began, Western partners have committed over $55.9 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. This aid includes a variety of air defense systems such as Patriot batteries, NASAMS, HAWK systems, Stinger missiles, and Avenger systems.
“Air defense has been something that we’ve been very focused on for a long time now when it comes to Ukraine. That has been a priority for the Ukrainians, and therefore it’s been a priority for us. I point you back to UDCG, almost a year and a half ago, where [Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III] highlighted how critical this was,” Ryder explained.
Iran’s provision of ballistic missiles in direct support of Russia’s war against Ukraine is a threat to European and global security. Today, @StateDept and @USTreasury are imposing sanctions on individuals and entities supporting such activities.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) September 11, 2024
Strategic Implications
The acquisition of Iranian missiles by Russia has broader strategic implications beyond the immediate battlefield. It demonstrates the strengthening defense ties between Russia and Iran, raising concerns among Western nations. This cooperation extends beyond missile technology, with indications of information sharing in areas such as nuclear programs and space capabilities.
“Without being able to go into specifics, we see them sharing information as it relates to nuclear programs, space and other technological capabilities that Russia has that countries like Iran want,” Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated, highlighting the extent of the Russia-Iran collaboration.
The deepening relationship between these two nations, along with Russia’s ties to North Korea, presents a complex challenge for the international community and Ukraine’s Western allies. It underscores the need for continued support to Ukraine and vigilance in monitoring and addressing these emerging partnerships.
The introduction of Iranian missiles to the conflict necessitates adjustments in Ukraine’s defense strategy. While the Fath 360 missiles are not highly accurate, their quantity increases the overall threat. Ukraine is now seeking additional missiles and air defense systems from its allies to counter this heightened danger.
“Russia’s focus is probably going to be on using those to do sort of the short tactical battlefield targets,” Timothy Wright, a military analyst, observed about the likely use of these Iranian missiles.
As the conflict evolves, the international community watches closely. And with Trump returning to the White House, Iran may start thinking twice about providing more missiles.
