Russia secretly helped Iran develop supersonic cruise missile technology via covert program that began in 2023; Iran builds and tests propulsion system

Russia has been secretly supporting Iranian missile development since 2023, according to a report in the *Financial Times*. The covert program, codenamed C430L, aims to develop missiles capable of targeting US Navy aircraft carriers in the Middle East.¹²

The focus is on a ramjet propulsion system, which would allow missiles to fly at several times the speed of sound, significantly enhancing their strike capabilities. Fast, low-flying missiles would give Western air defenses less time to react, increasing the potential impact of such attacks.³⁵

The report indicates that the transfer of advanced missile technology required approval from high political echelons in Russia, suggesting a possible technology exchange. Iran has long sought to develop a ramjet propulsion system, with efforts dating back to 2019, when then supreme leader Ali Khamenei inspected development sites.

Iranian media reported testing of ramjet prototypes in August 2023, and the propulsion system has been both constructed and tested, although there is no evidence that the missile has entered service. The distinction between a tested propulsion system and a fully operational missile is significant, as testing represents a developmental milestone, while entry into service would indicate a deployable weapons capability.⁴

The investigation also revealed that support continued throughout the war with Iran in February, providing significant assistance during attacks on Gulf states. “Russia is trying to broaden the Ukraine war and draw the US into different theatres,” said Nicole Grajewski, a professor at Sciences Po University in Paris.

This covert program highlights the deepening defense cooperation between Russia and Iran, with Russian missile specialists advising Iran on ramjet propulsion technology as part of this arrangement.