Russian Yak-130 and MiG-29 aircraft have been spotted in the sky over the Iranian capital, which are most likely used to intercept and neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles. The aircraft demonstrate high maneuverability and are equipped with modern detection systems, allowing them to effectively counter drones at various altitudes.
Yak-130, known as a light combat training aircraft, is equipped with radars and electronic countermeasures, making it suitable for training and real operations to detect low-visibility targets.
MiG-29, in turn, with its powerful engines and armament, is capable of developing supersonic speed, providing rapid interception of drones at distances of up to several tens of kilometers.
As a reminder, according to data for 2026, Iran has several types of Russian combat aircraft. In January 2025, the country received a batch of Su-35 fighters; the initial agreement provided for the supply of 25 aircraft, later the volume was increased to 50, but by the fall of 2025, only 4–6 units had been delivered. In September 2025, deliveries of MiG-29 fighters stationed at an airbase near Shiraz were confirmed. The arsenal also includes about 30 Su-24MK front-line bombers (some received from the USSR, some flew from Iraq in 1991) and about 10 Su-22M4s (export version of the Su-17M4). In addition, the Iranian Air Force operates 8 Yak-130 combat training aircraft for pilot training. Exact figures may vary due to new deliveries and write-offs of equipment.
Earlier, "The First Technical" reported on which domestic air defense systems are currently in service with the Islamic Republic.