Iran is seeking billions in arms deals from Russia, White House says
Moscow may send Iran fighter aircraft as Pentagon officials warn the tactical relationship could evolve into strategic cooperation.
WASHINGTON – One year to the day since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Iran is seeking billions of dollars' worth of military equipment from Russia in exchange for Tehran’s support for the Kremlin’s war effort, the White House said Friday.
Iran aims to purchase radars, attack helicopters and YAK-130 combat training planes from Moscow, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters, marking the latest sign of emerging military alignment between the two countries.
In addition, Russia is offering Iran “unprecedented defense cooperation, including on missiles, electronics and air defense,” Kirby said, before adding, “We believe that Russia might provide Iran with fighter jets."
Kirby declined to specify which specific models or types of cooperation may be on offer, such as co-production. Spokespeople for the White House and Pentagon did not immediately provide further detail.
