Mojtaba turns to Putin for deadlier drones? Chinese engines & local production drive Geran upgrades

Iran has reportedly asked Russia for upgraded Geran attack drones, potentially reversing a partnership that began with Moscow adopting Iranian Shahed technology. Citing Western security officials, the Financial Times reported Tehran’s interest in Russia’s more advanced systems. Ukrainian intelligence says Chinese Telefly turbojet engines have helped power faster Geran variants, complicating air defence efforts. It also reports a Geran-4 variant fitted with a Russian-made engine produced at Alabuga, potentially reducing reliance on imported engines. This report examines the reported request, Russia’s drone upgrades and how technology transfers could reshape security risks beyond Ukraine, including in the Gulf amid regional tensions.