Russia Sending Upgraded ‘Shahed’ Drones to Iran Amid Rising Tensions

U.S. and European officials have claimed that Russia is sending an upgraded version of “Shahed” drones to Iran, originally used in the war in Ukraine.

According to the Associated Press, Russia has modified the Iranian-made drones previously deployed in Ukraine. The upgraded versions reportedly include jet engines, artificial intelligence navigation, improved anti-jamming technology, and satellite internet devices linked to Starlink.

These advanced drones are reportedly being sent to Tehran. European officials believe they may be transported through Azerbaijan, possibly disguised as humanitarian aid and moved by trucks. It is not yet clear whether this is a one-time transfer or part of ongoing shipments.

The Kremlin has denied the claims. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called the report “completely false.” Meanwhile, a White House spokesperson, Olivia Wells, said that whatever Iran acquires from other countries will not affect the success of U.S. operations.

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated after recent U.S. and Israeli strikes, and Iran has intensified drone attacks over the past month.

Separately, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed responsibility for an attack on a U.S. military support vessel near the coast of Oman. According to a report by Al Jazeera, the vessel was located a significant distance from the Port of Salalah.

In a statement reported by Tasnim News Agency, the Revolutionary Guard emphasized that Iran respects Oman’s national sovereignty and considers Oman a friendly and cooperative country.