The kamikaze drone that struck the British base at Akrotiri last Sunday was equipped with Russian military hardware, The Sunday Times revealed today.
According to the report, the aircraft contained the Russian-made Kometa-B navigation system. This specific technology was first identified by Ukrainian air defenses in December, and recovered components have already been transported to Britain for further forensic analysis.
Evidence of Russian involvement
Military analysts suggest this discovery provides the first concrete evidence that Russian military equipment is being utilized in the conflict involving Iran. This development raises significant concerns regarding Moscow’s expanding footprint in the Middle East war.
The revelation follows reports that Russia has been sharing intelligence with Tehran to facilitate attacks on U.S. forces, including the real-time locations of American warships and aircraft, The Sunday Times notes.
The diplomatic rhetoric has shifted accordingly. Andrei Kelin, Russia’s Ambassador to the UK, stated yesterday that his country is “not neutral” in the war, adding that Moscow’s position is “supportive of Iran.”
Sir Richard Knighton, the head of the British Armed Forces, emphasized that he has “no doubt” Russia is providing intelligence to Iran.
“This is an axis we must highlight. The cooperation between Iran and Russia makes their forces more capable and more dangerous, and that is why we must be ready,” Knighton stated. He further confirmed that the attack on the Akrotiri base originated from Lebanon and was carried out by an “Iran-linked group.” British analysts add that the perpetrator is most likely Hezbollah.