Iranian Nuclear Experts Made Second Covert Trip to Russia According to FT

Reports indicate that Tehran sought laser technology for weapon designs during a secret St. Petersburg visit.

Details of the Secret Visit

Iranian nuclear scientists traveled to Russia secretly last year for the second time. The U.S. believes this trip was to get sensitive technology for nuclear weapons. The Financial Times reported this news on Wednesday. The visit happened in November 2024. It followed an earlier trip that took place in August 2024.

Growing Military Cooperation

This visit shows a growing exchange between Russian military research groups and Iran’s SPND. The United States says SPND is linked to Tehran’s armed forces. They believe this body oversees research for nuclear weapons. These meetings are a clear sign of Moscow helping Tehran. They are sharing knowledge relevant to developing nuclear arms.

Focus on Laser Technology

Experts believe the Iranian team wanted specific technical help. Jim Lamson, a former CIA analyst, spoke to the paper about this. He said they were “seeking laser technology and expertise that could help them validate a nuclear weapon design without conducting a nuclear explosive test.” This evidence points to serious defense collaboration.

The Organizations Involved

The FT report says a front company named DamavandTec organized this trip. They sent Iranian laser specialists to St. Petersburg in November 2024. There, the Iranian nuclear experts met with officials from Laser Systems. This Russian firm creates lasers for both civilian and military use. The company is currently under U.S. sanctions.