The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that the armed forces of the Russian Federation and the Islamic Republic of Iran carried out a joint assault operation as part of the large-scale Zapad-2025 strategic exercise.

According to the ministry, the scenario was designed to simulate modern battlefield conditions, including heavy use of reconnaissance and strike drones by a hostile force. Iranian units, operating alongside Russian motorized rifle troops, conducted an offensive maneuver under conditions of “intensive enemy use of reconnaissance UAVs and FPV drones.” Backed by allied FPV drones, Iranian troops reportedly repelled enemy attacks, launched a counteroffensive, captured fortified positions, and consolidated the newly gained line.

The statement added that both Russian and Iranian soldiers practiced storming fortified positions with BMP-2 and BMP-2M armored vehicles equipped with the Berezhok combat module. Crews fired guided missiles to destroy protected targets, while Iranian troops, supported by Russian armored groups, successfully seized and secured the enemy’s stronghold.

The drill also tested modern logistics support. Ammunition and supplies were delivered to frontline positions by Sibir-2 and Repei UAVs through air drops, while Omich and Impuls robotic systems provided ground-based resupply.

Zapad-2025, held by Russia and Belarus, is one of Moscow’s largest quadrennial military drills. Iran’s active participation this year underscores the growing depth of military cooperation between Moscow and Tehran. Analysts note that the extensive use of drones and robotic systems reflects both nations’ efforts to adapt to new warfare doctrines. The Russian Defense Ministry emphasized that the assault exercise was carried out successfully and praised the performance of Iranian forces.(ILKHA)