Russia Cannot Utilize Iranian Spy Satellite, Says Iranian Space Agency

The Iranian Space Agency has denied the possibility of Russia using the "Khayyam" reconnaissance satellite for spying on Ukraine. According to a statement released by the agency on August 7, the space device falls solely under Tehran's jurisdiction and is not suitable for military purposes of other countries.

The satellite's operational control center will be located within Iranian territory, and all commands related to its oversight and operation will be executed by Iranian specialists from the very first day of its launch.

"No other country will have access to this information. Reports about using satellite imagery for the military purposes of another country are not true," emphasized the agency.

Russia plans to launch the Iranian satellite into orbit from Baikonur on August 9. As previously reported by The Washington Post, citing Western intelligence sources, it is expected to significantly enhance Tehran's capability to spy on military facilities in the Middle East. However, prior to that, the publication noted, Moscow intended to use the space equipment for monitoring the armed forces of Ukraine.