February 23, 2026 | 05:35 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Iran signed a secret agreement to purchase Russian missile systems worth approximately €500 million, or about $590 million, in December 2025. The pact aims to rebuild Iran's air defense network.
According to a Financial Times report published Sunday, February 22, and cited by Anadolu, the deal was finalized in Moscow. Information regarding the transaction came from a source familiar with the negotiation process.
Under the contract, Russia is expected to deliver 500 Verba portable launchers and 2,500 9M336 missiles to Iran over three years.
Phased Delivery Until 2029
As part of the €500 million agreement, the missile systems will be deployed in three stages between 2027 and 2029. This phased delivery scheme is designed to align the distribution process with operational readiness.
However, according to the same report, some sources indicate that certain systems may have been delivered ahead of the original schedule. Thus far, neither the Iranian nor the Russian governments has provided official confirmation regarding the exact delivery timeline.
Response to the 2025 Attack
Iran's urgent request for the air defense system is reportedly a direct response to the security vacuum following Israeli and American attacks in June 2025. Those strikes ignited a 12-day regional conflict.
According to a Middle East Monitor report, the Tehran government formally requested the defense systems from Russia in July 2025. The request was prioritized to bolster defense capabilities and shield strategic facilities following the mid-year hostilities.
This move underscores Iran's determination to fortify its airspace amid the escalating risk of strikes against military infrastructure and vital assets.
Verba System Capabilities
The Verba is recognized as one of Russia's most sophisticated man-portable air defense systems. The hardware is specifically engineered to intercept and neutralize a variety of short-range aerial threats.
Verba systems can effectively engage cruise missiles as well as low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
At the time of this report, Russian and Iranian authorities have issued no official statements regarding further technical specifications, implementation mechanisms, or the current status of the deal.
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