The United States has confirmed that Iran has supplied Russia with a number of Fath 360 close-range ballistic missiles, further bolstering Russia’s military capabilities against Ukraine. The Pentagon disclosed the development, stating that the missiles, which have a range of approximately 75 miles, could be employed by Russia within weeks, intensifying the threat to Ukrainian civilians.
Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder revealed during a briefing that while the total number of missiles transferred remains unclear, the Fath 360 missiles would enable Russia to conserve its longer-range weapons for other uses. “This missile system would allow Russia to strike the kinds of targets they’ve been focusing on, including civilian infrastructure, while preserving their long-range capabilities,” Ryder said.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. and its allies have been committed to providing military support to Ukraine, with a strong focus on air defense. This assistance has included Patriot air defense batteries, NASAMS, HAWK systems, and other anti-aircraft defenses, in response to continued missile strikes and drone attacks by Russia.
“Air defense has been a priority for us and the Ukrainians since early in the conflict, and it will remain a priority as these new missile threats emerge,” Ryder emphasized, adding that the U.S. and its allies will continue to support Ukraine’s ability to defend against these threats.
In addition to supplying the missiles, Iran has reportedly trained Russian military personnel in the use of the Fath 360 system, with dozens of Russian soldiers having undergone training in Iran. While it remains unclear what Iran received in exchange, Ryder speculated that intelligence and technological exchanges could be part of the deal.
The U.S. official also highlighted concerns over Russia’s deepening ties with Iran and other global adversaries, including North Korea, which could lead to further military collaboration. “This growing relationship between Russia and Iran is troubling, and we anticipate that these missile deliveries are likely to continue,” Ryder said.
Since the start of the conflict, the U.S. has committed more than $55.9 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, with air defense systems playing a critical role in protecting Ukrainian infrastructure and civilians from Russian missile strikes.–News Desk