Overview

• Iran is reportedly preparing to deliver launchers for Fath-360 short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, completing a weapons transfer initially begun in 2024.
• The Fath-360 missile, with a 120-km range, could enhance Russian forces' ability to strike Ukrainian military targets and population centers near the border.
• Experts suggest the delivery could increase pressure on Ukraine's defenses and allow Russia to conserve more advanced missiles for critical infrastructure attacks.
• The U.S. and its allies have imposed sanctions on Iran over its military support to Russia, which has also included drones and artillery shells.
• The launcher delivery may complicate ongoing U.S.-led peace efforts in Ukraine and parallel nuclear negotiations with Iran, according to analysts.