Does Tehran really have capability to transfer 400 ballistic missiles to Moscow?
Reports suggesting Iran's immediate transfer of 400 Fateh-110 ballistic missiles to Russia raise questions about the feasibility of such a large shipment. While not officially confirmed, negotiations between Russia and Iran were acknowledged by the Pentagon earlier this year
Defense Express writes about it.
John Kirby from the Pentagon expressed concern about Russia seeking short-range ballistic missiles from Iran, although no confirmed transfers were recorded at that time.
The possibility of Iran supplying missiles to Russia has been discussed since 2022, mirroring North Korea's actions despite international sanctions. The absence of consequences for North Korea sets a concerning precedent for Iran.
The key concern now is the sheer number—400 missiles. Fateh-110 missiles, developed since the mid-'90s, reached a 300 km range in 2008. Zolfaghar, with a 700 km range, was unveiled in 2016.
Iran's prior transfer of Fateh-110 missiles to Hezbollah demonstrates its capability to supply large quantities, as seen with Hezbollah amassing 600 missiles by 2020.
The question remains whether Iran can deliver such a significant quantity in one go. Analysts suggest the 400 missiles could be a total order, not a one-time shipment, considering Iran's total ballistic missile arsenal estimated at 3,000 units.
The more plausible scenario is a staggered delivery of the ordered missiles, potentially produced since 2022.
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