A new report claims Russia provided Iran with satellite intelligence and advanced drone technology to help track and target U.S. forces during the conflict with the United States and Israel. According to The Wall Street Journal, Moscow allegedly provided Tehran with the intel in order to strengthen its battlefield strategy.
The report states that Russia shared intelligence on the locations of U.S. forces and regional allies across the Middle East. That level of support mirrors how the United States and European nations have backed Ukraine with intelligence during its ongoing war with Russia. So while global tensions stayed high, both sides appear to have leaned on strategic partnerships to gain an edge.
Officials familiar with the matter told the publication that Russia also upgraded components for Iran’s Shahed drones. These changes reportedly improved navigation systems and targeting accuracy, making the drones more effective in combat situations. Russia, which has built extensive drone experience through its war in Ukraine, also advised Iran on deployment tactics, including flight altitude and operational scale.
The Washington Post previously reported similar claims, noting that Russia had supplied intelligence on U.S. warships and aircraft. One source described the effort as “a pretty comprehensive” level of support, pointing to a coordinated strategy rather than isolated assistance.
However, there is a clear contrast in public messaging. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said Russia assured the Trump administration it was not aiding Iranian attacks. Still, Donald Trump suggested otherwise, stating, “I think he may be helping them a bit. He probably thinks we’re helping Ukraine. They do it, and we do it.”
The growing relationship between Russia and Iran has been building since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, especially as Iran supplied drones to Russian forces. Now, this latest report suggests that cooperation may be moving both ways in a more direct and strategic fashion.
