DUBAI: Iran on Sunday put three additional satellites into orbit using Russia’s Soyuz launch vehicles, Iranian state media reported, highlighting deepening space cooperation between the two US-sanctioned countries.
Iran has increasingly relied on its ally Russia to put satellites in orbit in recent years, with the latest three intended to help with monitoring agriculture, natural resources and the environment.
"These satellites were designed and produced by Iranian scientists ... despite all the sanctions and threats," Iran's ambassador to Russia, Kazem Jalal,i told state TV in reference to Western measures over Tehran's nuclear programme.
"We are working together (with Russia) in different areas. Some are evident, and some we don't like to clarify."
Iran's official IRNA news agency said the three satellites - Paya, Zafar 2, and a second Kowsar - were for low-earth orbit.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Iran and Russia have deepened ties, with Western countries accusing Iran of providing missiles and drones for Russian attacks.
