Iran has successfully launched three domestically developed observation satellites into space from Russia, marking another milestone in its space programme despite ongoing Western sanctions, Iranian state television reported on Sunday.
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According to the report, the satellites — Zafar-2, Paya, and Kowsar 1.5 — were launched aboard a Russian Soyuz rocket from the Vostochny Cosmodrome. Iranian officials said the satellites were designed by the country’s private sector and are intended for peaceful observation purposes.
The official IRNA news agency said Paya is Iran’s most advanced locally produced imaging satellite, equipped with artificial intelligence technology to enhance image resolution. The satellite is expected to support water resource management, environmental monitoring, and mapping activities.
Iranian media reported that the Soyuz launch vehicle was selected due to its global reputation for reliability in carrying sensitive satellite payloads. This marks Iran’s tenth satellite launch over the past two years, including a previous mission launched from the same Russian facility in July.
Iran maintains that its aerospace programme is strictly civilian in nature and complies with United Nations Security Council resolutions related to its nuclear activities. Tehran has repeatedly denied allegations that its space launch technologies are linked to the development of ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons.
However, Western countries have expressed concerns that satellite launch systems could share technology with long-range missile programs capable of carrying nuclear warheads. Iranian officials have rejected these claims, insisting that the country has no intention of acquiring nuclear weapons.
The latest launch underscores Iran’s continued investment in space and satellite technology amid international scrutiny and geopolitical tensions.
