Politics Iran launches three satellites into space with Russian help
Iran has launched three satellites into orbit with the support of Russia. According to the state news agency Irna, a Soyuz rocket launched the three satellites "Kosar", "Paya" and "Zafar-2" from the Vostochny space station into orbit at an altitude of around 500 kilometers. According to official information, the satellites will collect environmental data - including information on weather systems, natural disasters and agricultural developments - and thus contribute to the country's scientific research.
28.12.2025, 15:58
SDA
Tehran has always maintained that the country's space projects are exclusively for peaceful purposes and will not be used for military purposes. "Iran is advancing its technology and the satellite program is part of this endeavor and a purely scientific mission," explained Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
However, the program is met with scepticism in the West, particularly in the USA and Israel. Critics fear that the Islamic Republic could also use its space technology for military purposes. Doubts are mainly focused on the involvement of the Revolutionary Guards, the country's most important armed forces, which are largely responsible for military operations.
Due to Western sanctions, Iran and Russia maintain close cooperation. At the same time, Tehran is internationally accused of supplying Moscow with drones for the war against Ukraine. Iran rejects these accusations and explains that the drone deliveries are part of a general military cooperation with Russia and are not directed against Kiev.
