Iran and Russia Advance Military-Defense Relations Amidst External Scrutiny

Ambassador Jalali Confirms Ongoing Cooperation

Kazem Jalali, the Iranian Ambassador to Russia, recently stated that military-defense relations between Tehran and Moscow are advancing according to established plans, despite significant external scrutiny. Speaking in a recent interview with Press TV, Jalali emphasized the confidential nature of these collaborations, noting that 'Many of our enemies delve into the military-defense relations between the two countries so they can uncover secrets. Since the principle of confidentiality is the basis in military cooperation, what I, as the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, can say is that it is proceeding according to plan.'

Deepening Strategic Partnership

The advancement of military ties is part of a broader strategic alignment between Iran and Russia. A significant milestone in this relationship is the Iranian-Russian Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, signed on January 17, 2025, by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. This treaty, which came into effect on October 2, 2025, after ratification by both nations' legislative bodies, is designed to govern relations for the next 20 years. It encompasses various areas, including:

• Defense and security cooperation
• Counter-terrorism efforts
• Economic and financial collaboration
• Energy and cultural exchanges

Both nations view this partnership as a response to Western sanctions and a shared opposition to unilateralism, aiming to bolster their security and economic resilience.

Military-Technical Collaboration and Joint Exercises

The military cooperation between Iran and Russia involves both the supply of equipment and joint strategic planning. Iran has supplied Russia with various types of drones, including Shahed-131/136 series and Mohajer-6, and there are reports of establishing drone production facilities in Russia. Conversely, Russia is expected to provide Iran with advanced military hardware, such as Su-35 fighter jets, Mi-28 attack helicopters, and Yak-130 combat trainer aircraft. Ambassador Jalali clarified that Iran did not request the S-400 missile system prior to a recent conflict, and other military collaborations are proceeding with confidentiality.

Joint military exercises also underscore the deepening ties. For instance, in July 2025, Iran and Russia commenced joint naval drills in the Caspian Sea, codenamed CASAREX 2025, aimed at enhancing maritime safety and regional cooperation.

Addressing External Scrutiny

The growing military cooperation has drawn considerable attention and concern from Western nations. However, Iranian officials, including Ambassador Jalali, maintain that their collaboration with Russia is not directed against any third party. Instead, they assert that it is focused on ensuring security and stability in the region. Jalali also highlighted that the nature of Iran's agreement with Russia differs from Russia's pacts with countries like Belarus or North Korea, with Russia's proposals for joint defense agreements still in preliminary stages.

The West's 'mistreatment' of Iran since the Islamic Revolution and recent sanctions against Russia have been cited as factors bringing the two countries closer, fostering a mutual desire to counter what they perceive as excessive demands from international powers.