LONDON — Senior UK politicians have expressed concern after an expose on Thursday revealed that several British universities are helping Iran's government develop technology that can be used in its drones and fighter jets.
At least 11 UK universities, including Cambridge University, Imperial College London and aerospace specialist college Cranfield University, worked on Iran-related projects, with staff producing at least 16 studies with potential Iranian military applications, The Jewish Chronicle found in its investigation.
Britain bans the export of “dual use” and military technology to Iran, and recently imposed sanctions against Iranian individuals and entities supplying Russia with kamikaze suicide drones being used by Russia in its war against Ukraine. Dual-use technology can be used by both civilians and the military. British parliament members demand to know how the research was carried out despite the government’s sanctions on Iran.
The Jewish Chronicle investigation revealed that one of the project researchers in the UK worked to improve drone engines, boosting their altitude, speed and range. That research was funded by the Iranian government.
