Iran Reportedly Sends Fath-360 Ballistic Missiles, Arman Air Defense Systems to Russia
Media reports indicate that a convoy of Iranian military vehicles, believed to be carrying Fath-360 short-range ballistic missile systems and Arman air defense systems, was spotted in Bandar-e-Anzali near the Caspian Sea, en route for shipment to Russia by sea.
(DEFENSE SECURITY ASIA) – Iran has reportedly delivered Fath-360 short-range ballistic missiles and the Arman air defense system to Russia to support its military campaign against Ukraine.
Media reports indicate that a convoy of Iranian military vehicles, believed to be carrying Fath-360 short-range ballistic missile systems and Arman air defense systems, was spotted in Bandar-e-Anzali near the Caspian Sea, en route for shipment to Russia by sea.
Analysts suggest that both weapons systems will significantly bolster Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine, with the transfer taking place as military cooperation between Russia and Iran continues to grow.
The Fath-360 short-range ballistic missile, also known as the BM-120, is an Iranian-made weapon developed by the Aerospace Industries Organization (AIO).
It was first unveiled during Iran’s Army Day on April 18, 2022.
The Fath-360 has a maximum range of 120 kilometers and can be equipped with a warhead weighing up to 150 kilograms.
Media reports indicate that a convoy of Iranian military vehicles, believed to be carrying Fath-360 short-range ballistic missile systems and Arman air defense systems, was spotted in Bandar-e-Anzali near the Caspian Sea, en route for shipment to Russia by sea.
It can reach speeds of Mach 3 during launch and Mach 4 as it approaches its target.
The missile uses Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Inertial Navigation System (INS) guidance, with an accuracy of less than 30 meters.
The missile is launched from a mobile platform capable of carrying up to six missiles simultaneously, enabling rapid responses to threats.
In August 2024, reports indicated that Russian military personnel had undergone training in Iran to operate the Fath-360 system.
Moscow is expected to receive hundreds of these missiles for deployment in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
The Fath-360 enhances the precision strike capability of forces that operate it.
Its high mobility and short reaction time make it ideal for targeting tactical objectives on the battlefield, while satellite guidance improves strike accuracy and reduces the risk of collateral damage.
“Arman”
The Fath-360 is regarded as a competitor to the U.S.-made HIMARS system.
This missile system is part of a broader Iranian strategy to supply Russia with long-range missiles, including variants of the Fateh-110.
The provision of short-range ballistic missiles could significantly boost Russia’s missile arsenal, particularly as it faces increasing resistance in Ukraine and a shortage of precision-guided munitions.
Analysts believe these missiles may be used against strategic targets in Ukraine, where the Russian military is increasingly reliant on precision weapons.
The Arman air defense system is a long-range anti-ballistic system developed by Iran’s Ministry of Defense with support from the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
It was officially introduced on February 17, 2024, in a ceremony attended by Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, Iran’s Defense Minister.
Key features of the Arman air defense system include the ability to detect targets at a range of up to 180 kilometers and track targets at distances of up to 160 kilometers.
The system can be operational in under three minutes and detect up to 24 targets simultaneously.
Iran’s surface to air missile system “Arman”“Fath-360”
The Arman system provides 360-degree coverage and can engage six different targets at once, including cruise missiles, drones, and short-range ballistic missiles.
There are two versions of the Arman air defense system, each equipped with different radar technologies:
Passive Radar – One variant uses passive radar for target detection.
Active Radar – The second variant features active radar for enhanced detection and tracking capabilities.
The Arman system utilizes the Sayyad-3F missile, which is launched vertically and designed to counter a variety of aerial threats.
The development of the Arman air defense system aims to strengthen Iran’s air defense capabilities, particularly against ballistic missile threats and other aerial dangers.
With a rapid response time and the ability to track and engage multiple targets, the system reinforces Iran’s layered air defense against modern threats.
Overall, the Arman system reflects Iran’s advancements in defense technology, providing the nation with greater capacity to safeguard its airspace from various threats. — DSA