Russia Advise Iran on Drone Tactics

Russia is reportedly assisting Iran with advanced drone tactics developed during its war in Ukraine, potentially enhancing Tehran’s ability to target US and Gulf nation assets in the Middle East, according to a Western intelligence official cited by CNN.

The official said Moscow’s support has evolved from general intelligence assistance to more detailed operational guidance, including strategies for deploying unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The source spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the intelligence.

“What was more general support is now getting more concerning, including UAS targeting strategies that Russia employed in Ukraine,” the official told CNN.

The Iranian-designed Shahed drones—mass-produced by Russia for use in Ukraine—have demonstrated unexpected effectiveness in penetrating the air defense systems of several Gulf nations.

According to the intelligence official cited by CNN, Russia’s experience in Ukraine includes launching drones in coordinated waves and altering flight paths mid-mission to evade interception systems. In some cases, Ukrainian defenses have faced more than 1,000 drones in a single night.

These tactics, if shared with Iran, could significantly increase the effectiveness of drone operations across the Middle East.

Volodymyr Zelensky also accused Moscow of expanding its military support for Tehran.

Posting on X, Zelensky said Russia had begun assisting the Iranian government with drones and could eventually help with missile technology and air defense systems as well. He did not provide detailed evidence of the alleged assistance.

Western officials noted that the role of China in supporting Iran is also being closely monitored.

Beijing has publicly condemned US-Israeli strikes against Iran but has not indicated any willingness to provide direct military support to Tehran, according to the officials cited by CNN.