Russia will launch two Iranian satellites - Kowsar and Hodhod - into orbit on November 5 using a Soyuz launch vehicle, Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali announced.
The delivery of the two satellites to Russia was announced on October 12, underscoring deepening cooperation between the two Western-sanctioned countries.
Kowsar, a high-resolution imaging satellite, is designed for use in agriculture, environmental monitoring and disaster management. Hodhod, a small communications satellite, aims to provide satellite connectivity in remote areas with limited terrestrial networks.
Moscow launched Iranian satellites into orbit in February this year. and earlier in 2022, raising concerns in Washington about potential military implications. Officials worry the satellites could support Russia's operations in Ukraine and help Iran monitor military targets in Israel and the Middle East.
Ties between Moscow and Tehran have deepened since full-scale war broke out in 2022. Iran has provided Russia with thousands of Shahed drones used in attacks on Ukraine and even short-range ballistic missiles. | BGNES, AFP
