Iran launches three satellites with Russian Soyuz rockets

Iran has successfully placed three domestically developed satellites into low-Earth orbit using Russian Soyuz launch vehicles, further underscoring deepening strategic and technological cooperation between the two U.S.-sanctioned countries. The launch took place on December 28 and was confirmed by Iranian state media, marking another milestone in Tehran’s expanding space programme amid continued Western pressure over its nuclear activities.

Details of the satellite launch

According to Iran’s official IRNA news agency, the satellites—Paya, Zafar-2, and a second unit of Kowsar—were carried aboard Russian Soyuz rockets. All three satellites are designed for low-Earth orbit operations. They are intended to support civilian applications such as monitoring agricultural productivity, managing natural resources, and assessing environmental conditions across Iran and neighbouring regions.

Iran–Russia space collaboration

Iran has increasingly depended on Russia to place satellites into orbit, particularly after facing restrictions on access to international launch services. The collaboration has expanded significantly since 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Western governments have accused Iran of supplying drones and missiles to Russia, allegations both countries have denied. Space cooperation has emerged as a visible and symbolic area of this growing partnership.

Official reactions and strategic messaging

Iran’s ambassador to Russia, Kazem Jalali, stated that the satellites were designed and built by Iranian scientists despite sanctions and external threats. He emphasised that cooperation between Tehran and Moscow spans multiple domains, some of which are not publicly disclosed. His remarks were widely broadcast on Iranian state television, highlighting national resilience and technological self-reliance.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Soyuz is a long-serving Russian launch vehicle family used for both crewed and uncrewed missions.
• Low-Earth orbit typically ranges from about 160 km to 2,000 km above Earth’s surface.
• Iran’s civilian satellites often focus on earth observation rather than communication.
• Space cooperation is part of broader Iran–Russia strategic ties after 2022.

Implications for regional and global politics

The launch is likely to attract scrutiny from Western capitals, which view Iran’s space capabilities as potentially dual-use. While Tehran maintains that its programme is purely civilian, satellite launch technologies are closely linked to ballistic missile development. The event reinforces Iran’s intent to advance its aerospace ambitions despite sustained international sanctions.