The Dangerous Rise of Military Drones in Eastern Europe

Research by Conflict Armament Research (CAR) has revealed that the Iranian drones sold to Russia and deployed in Ukraine are powered by an engine based on German technology that was illicitly acquired by Iran almost 20 years ago. The finding highlights Iran's ability to mimic and finesse military technology it has obtained illegitimately. Western officials are concerned that Russia may share Western-made weapons and equipment recovered on the Ukrainian battlefield with Iran. The drone sales have deepened Iran's relations with Russia, which were already strengthening as the two countries were increasingly locked out of international commerce and the financial system.