On February 22, 2026, the Financial Times revealed that Iran finalized a secret €500 million agreement with Russia’s Rosoboronexport for 500 9K333 Verba MANPADS launchers, 2,500 9M336 surface-to-air missiles, and associated night vision equipment. The contract was reportedly signed in Moscow in December 2025 and foresees deliveries between 2027 and 2029, although a smaller number of systems may have been transferred earlier. The purchase follows recent U.S.–Israel strikes, heightened U.S. military buildup in the Middle East, and ongoing U.S.–Iran nuclear negotiations. Read full defense news at this link...
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| The Russian-made 9K333 Verba MANPADS is a shoulder-fired air defense system designed to engage aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and UAVs at ranges of 500 m to 6–6.5 km and altitudes up to 4.5 km, with reaction time under 8 seconds and average speeds exceeding 600 m/s. (Picture source: Russian MoD) |