Aircraft
Moscow Preparing for Big Defense Business with Tehran
Russian aerospace firms exhibited in force at the recent Iran Air Show; license-production of the Su-30MK is mooted.
While awaiting new combat jets from abroad, Iran innovates domestically, such as by reverse-engineering the Northrop F-5 as the Sa’eqeh, on display for the first time. (Photo: Reuben F. Johnson)
While awaiting new combat jets from abroad, Iran innovates domestically, such as by reverse-engineering the Northrop F-5 as the Sa’eqeh, on display for the first time. (Photo: Reuben F. Johnson)

Russia’s readiness to become the major weapons supplier to Iran was indicated by its participation in the eighth international airshow held recently by the Iranian government on Kish Island. Russia’s aerospace industrial companies were all present at the event for the first time. Nothing official was said during the show, but the clear signal was that they are preparing for the day when the easing of international trade sanctions allows them to do business openly and directly with Tehran.