Russia Secretly Aided Iran in Supersonic Missile Development

The Federal Government of Russia has secretly assisted Iran in developing supersonic cruise missiles since 2023 through a program codenamed C430L. The collaboration focuses on the creation of a ramjet propulsion system, which allows missiles to fly at several times the speed of sound. These weapons are specifically designed to target United States Navy aircraft carriers operating in the Middle East.

The partnership was formalized in a deal signed in November 2023, though preparations began earlier. The arrangement functions as a technology exchange: Russia provides missile expertise while Iran supports Russian drone development and shares intelligence. This cooperation reportedly continued through February 2026 and included Russian assistance during Iranian attacks on Gulf states.

Internal Iranian efforts to develop this technology date back further, with Supreme Leader Ali Khameini inspecting ramjet development sites as early as 2019.