Iran wants sophisticated Russian military capabilities – US warns

Iran wants to acquire sophisticated Russian weaponry, a move that would only increase its ability to destabilize the region, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Thursday, as he charged that the Islamic Republic was behind the attacks on maritime shipping routes.

“We have reason to believe that they want their hands on some sophisticated attack helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, cruise and/or ballistic,” he said.

“There is clearly a growing relationship in the defense realm between these two countries,” he said.

Ebrahim Raisi meets with Vladimir Putin

Iran’s push for additional military capability is concerning for the Middle East, Kirby said, as Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi met in Moscow with President Vladimir Putin.

Iranian authorities have said military cooperation with Russia is expanding day by day. Iran said last month it had finalized arrangements for Russia to provide it with Su-35 fighter jets, Mi-28 attack helicopters, and Yak-130 pilot training aircraft. READ MORE