Investigation reveals Iran's secret military procurement network

A Reuters investigation has uncovered a clandestine global network utilized by Iran to circumvent Western sanctions and maritime blockades. Since January 2025, this infrastructure has facilitated the import of military equipment, explosives, heavy-duty trucks, and components for drones and missiles worth at least $2 billion. The system relies on more than 5,000 entities linked to the Iranian Ministry of Defense, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and various state-controlled business conglomerates known as bonyads.

The operation has functioned through complex shipping and financial channels, with many entities identified by the prefix 'MOD' in transport and shipping documentation. These findings provide insight into how the IRGC has managed to sustain its massive missile and drone inventories despite persistent international pressure. The evidence, derived from thousands of shipping documents and trade records, highlights the scale of a parallel trade mechanism that has been active, in some capacity, since at least 2016.

This logistical apparatus was particularly active during the 18-month period from January 2025 to June 2026, allowing Tehran to maintain its offensive capabilities. The ongoing investigation underscores the challenges facing global efforts to enforce restrictions on Iran's military and technological development.