Russia's supply of Iranian short-range ballistic missiles, such as the Fath-360 and Ababil, opens up new tactical options that could make the frontline in Ukraine more dangerous. According to an analysis by Business Insider, these cheaper missiles allow the Russian military to strike tactical targets near the battle line, increasing pressure on Ukrainian positions, as cited by Focus.
Missile technology expert Timothy Wright of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) points out that Russia's likely strategy is to use these missiles to strike short-range targets close to the front line. While it has not yet been confirmed whether any of these missiles have been used on the battlefield, analysts believe such weapons could significantly boost the Russian offensive.
Fabian Hoffmann, a researcher at the Oslo Nuclear Project, emphasizes that Iranian missiles will allow Russia to put even more pressure on Ukrainian forces at the front, increasing the risk to positions and targets in the immediate vicinity.
Another IISS expert, Fabian Hintz, explained that the presence of shorter-range Iranian missiles would allow Russia to store its longer-range strategic missiles, such as the Iskander, for attacks further into the territory of Ukraine. This would provide greater flexibility to the Russian military, as well as important additional quantities of ammunition that can be used as needed on the front.
The report emphasizes that while Iranian missiles do not introduce entirely new capabilities, they provide a significant advantage by increasing weaponry and flexibility for the Russian military.