2008年12月22日星期一

Russia says supplying Iran with "defensive" weapons

Russia's state coat of arms exportation company said it has sold "defensive armaments" to Islamic Republic of Iran.
·But it would not approve stories it was delivering S-300 air defense systems to Tehran.
·The S-300s have a longer range than the Tor-M1 systems.
    -- Russia's state arms export company said Monday it has sold "defensive armaments" to Iran, including anti-aircraft missile systems, but it would not confirm reports it was delivering S-300 air defense systems to Tehran.
    "Russia is developing military-technical cooperation with Iran in strict compliance with its international commitments deriving from non-proliferation regimes," the company, Rosoboronexport, was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying in a statement.
    "This cooperation cannot be a source of concern for third countries," the statement said.
    Rosoboron export confirmed in the statement that Tor-M1 anti-aircraft missile systems were supplied to Iran previously.
    Iranian media reported last week that Iran will soon receive S-300 air defense systems from Russia under a recently reached deal following several years of negotiation.
    The S-300s are sophisticated, medium-range surface-to-air missile systems and have a longer range than the Tor-M1 systems.
    Israel has urged Russia not to deliver such systems to Iran, alleging Iran wants to develop a military nuclear program and such a deal will not serve the interests of peace in the Middle East. Tehran insists. its nuclear program is solely for civilian purpose.

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