Russian Rocket Launches Iranian Nahid-2 Satellite from Vostochny

A Russian Soyuz rocket successfully launched the Iranian communications satellite Nahid-2 into orbit from the Vostochny Cosmodrome, marking a significant milestone for Iran's space program and highlighting strong Russia-Iran ties. The 110-kilogram satellite, designed and manufactured by Iranian engineers, features an indigenous propulsion system capable of adjusting its altitude to counteract orbital decay, along with advanced thermal insulation and durable lithium-ion batteries. This launch, part of a broader mission including multiple Russian and international satellites, occurred amid ongoing nuclear talks between Iran and European powers, raising Western concerns about the dual-use potential of Iran's space technology for ballistic missile development. Russia, which has recently signed a strategic partnership treaty with Iran, maintains a delicate regional balance by condemning attacks on Iran while emphasizing that Tehran has not requested military aid. This mission follows several previous Russian launches of Iranian satellites, reflecting deepening cooperation between the two countries in aerospace and geopolitical domains. The event underscores Iran's growing capabilities in space technology and Russia's role as a key partner in advancing Iran's satellite ambitions despite international scrutiny.