Russia is now sending its own drones back to Iran – the weapons it learned to make from Tehran

Russia is reportedly sending drones, food, and medicine to Iran in a phased delivery, according to the Financial Times, citing western intelligence. The shipments, which began in early March and are expected to conclude by the end of the month, would mark Moscow’s first known provision of lethal support to Tehran since the outbreak of the conflict in the region.

This transfer underscores the growing military cooperation between Moscow and Tehran amid a regional war in which Iran has fired more than 3,000 one-way attack drones since the fighting began, using these cheap, expendable systems as a core component of its strategy across the Middle East.

Deliveries discussed in secret after US and Israeli strikes on Tehran

Officials briefed on the intelligence said the deliveries were discussed secretly by senior Iranian and Russian officials shortly after Israeli and US strikes on Tehran. Moscow has long provided Tehran with satellite imagery, targeting data, and other intelligence support, and the shipments of drones appear aimed at boosting Iran’s operational capabilities and supporting the broader political stability of its regime.

The drones are likely based on the Geran-2 model, itself derived from the Iranian Shahed-136. Russia has produced similar drones since 2023 for use in Ukraine, with modifications that allow them to evade air defences and carry heavier payloads. 

Experts told the Financial Times that Iran’s priority is not simply more drones but more advanced systems, which Russia could supply through this transfer.

Moscow frames shipments as humanitarian aid

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded cautiously, calling some reports “fakes” but confirming ongoing dialogue with Iranian leadership. 

In public statements, Moscow has framed its shipments as humanitarian aid, noting that over 13 tonnes of medicine have been sent to Iran via Azerbaijan in recent weeks.

Iran wants S-400 systems – Russia says no

The Financial Times also reports that Tehran has requested more advanced Russian air defence systems, including man-portable Verba launchers and 9M336 missiles, but Russia has so far declined requests for S-400 units, likely to avoid direct escalation with the US. 

Analysts suggest the advanced drones and other technology could improve Iran’s drone strike capabilities while allowing Russia to influence the balance of power in the Middle East without directly intervening.