The military might of Iran, which is fighting a war with America and Israel, has attracted the attention of the world. Even though Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attacks on military and nuclear targets by America and Israel, Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks. This clearly showed the power of his weapons.
In the last 20 years, Iran has invested a lot in making weapons in its own country. But still it is dependent on some selected countries for some essential technology, components and modern systems. Russia and China play important roles in this, while North Korea and Belarus have previously helped in providing missile technology and military equipment. According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity, Iran imported arms worth $2.87 million in 2024, making it the 127th largest importer of arms (out of 211) in the world.
Iran’s main arms partner
Russia is considered Iran’s biggest military partner. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), most of Iran’s major arms imports between 2020 and 2024 came from Russia. Russia has provided air defense systems, missile technology, sensors and aircraft to Iran. After the Ukraine war and tensions with western countries, relations between the two countries have become stronger.
The new deals after the 2025 regional conflict also include portable air defense missile systems like Verba, which help Iran defend against aircraft and drones. Russian equipment has strengthened Iran’s air defense system. Now this partnership has become two-way. Iran gave Russia drones used in the Ukraine war, while Russia gave advanced technology to Iran.
Missile parts and technical cooperation from China
China is also an important partner in Iran’s defense sector. China is less likely to directly supply arms, but has provided missile components, electronics and technology that can be used in making weapons. According to reports, China has provided parts used in the ballistic missile program. There has also been discussion on selling anti-ship missiles like CM 302. The names of some Chinese companies are also linked to the supply of parts used in making drones. Many times these transactions happen through middlemen and other companies.
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