The United States has imposed sanctions on Vanguard Tactical Supply Limited, a Nigeria‑based company, for attempting to help Iran acquire man‑portable air‑defence systems (MANPADS). The move also targets Mohammed Ali Tolibov, CEO of Belarus‑based Armoury Alliance, and Alisher Domullodzhanov, a Russian‑based intermediary.
According to the Department of State, the trio was linked to the procurement of Chinese‑origin MANPADS, including QW and FN series missiles. They allegedly acted as intermediaries using false end‑user declarations to facilitate the sale of these lightweight, shoulder‑launched surface‑to‑air missiles to Tehran.
The sanctions are part of Operation Economic Outcast, a series of U.S. actions aimed at disrupting Iran’s arms‑purchasing networks. They follow earlier designations on 8 May, 10 June and 15 July 2026, which Washington said make it harder and more costly for Tehran to arm itself and reinforce United Nations restrictions that were restored in September 2025.
MANPADS are designed to allow a single soldier or small crew to target low‑flying aircraft, helicopters, drones and cruise missiles. Reports indicate Iran is seeking hundreds of China‑manufactured systems to bolster its low‑altitude defence, although Chinese officials have disputed the claim.
“Anyone who helps the regime build its arsenal should expect to be held accountable,” the Trump administration warned.
Meanwhile, Russia and Iran are reportedly negotiating the transfer of advanced S‑400 air‑defence systems, drone components and MANPADS. The Telegraph reported that Iran’s National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei presented a request to President Vladimir Putin during a Kremlin meeting, covering a €495 million contract signed in December 2025 for 500 Verba MANPADS launchers and 2,500 missiles aimed at rebuilding Iran’s defensive capabilities.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
