Project ‘C430L’: How Russia secretly helped Iran develop supersonic cruise missiles
Russia is reportedly providing Iran with advanced technology to develop supersonic cruise missiles under a covert program codenamed C430L. The initiative focuses on ramjet propulsion systems, which would significantly enhance Iran's ability to threaten naval vessels in the Gulf.
Why it matters
This transfer represents a major escalation in military cooperation between Moscow and Tehran, potentially altering the strategic balance of power in the Middle East.
Russia has been secretly helping Iran develop advanced supersonic cruise missiles under a multiyear covert programme codenamed “C430L,” in what experts say could be one of the most significant known transfers of strategic military technology from Moscow to Tehran, the Financial Times reported.According to the FT’s investigation, which is based on leaked Russian correspondence and an analysis of military patents, the programme began in 2023, well before the ongoing US-Iran war, but has continued into the current conflict in the Middle East.The report noted that the C430L programme is primarily aimed at helping Iran develop a ramjet propulsion system, an engine that enables a cruise missile to sustain speeds several times faster than the speed of sound.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in