Why are we writing about this?
A helicopter in the colors of the Iranian armed forces was photographed at the Tehran air base, and the publication of the photos coincided with the statement of the leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who stated that “our armed forces are equipping themselves with the latest technologies from friendly countries to defend the Islamic revolution against aggressors.”
What is known about Russia supplying planes to Iran?
In November 2023, Iranian Deputy Minister of Defense, General Mehdi Farahi, confirmed that Iran received support from the Kremlin in the form of Su-35 fighters, Yak-130 trainer aircraft and Mi-28 attack helicopters in exchange for Russia's help in its war against Ukraine. Three helicopters of this type reached Tehran between the end of 2025 and the end of January this year.
Mi-28NE. What kind of helicopter is this?
Designed for export, the Mi-28NE is equipped with advanced features to engage ground and air targets, including a 30 mm cannon, air-to-ground missiles and unguided rockets. The helicopter's durable armor and avionics ensure its survivability and effectiveness in combat, including in low-altitude operations, day and night, as the Belgian website Army Recognition described it on Thursday.
What does this mean?
According to the Asian military portal DefenseSecurityAsia, the confirmed arrival of the Mi-28NE helicopter means not only a qualitative modernization of the military aviation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, but also a well-thought-out strategic message addressed to adversaries, including Israel and the United States, demonstrating Tehran's ability to bypass sanctions and use Russian combat systems.
Tension around Iran. US pressure is growing
Iran is currently subject to increasing pressure from the US, which has concentrated a large fleet in its vicinity, led by the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier group, and dozens of fighters, bombers and transport planes. The destroyer USS Delbert Black arrived in the Middle East region on Thursday, increasing the number of US ships present near Iran to 10, Reuters and CBS reported on Thursday.
Read more:
Which helicopters reached Iran?
When did Iran receive Mi-28NE helicopters?
What are the main features of the Mi-28NE helicopter?
What military forces does Russia support in Iran?
