Iran provides Russia with Iranian-made 122mm mortar shells.

On April 4, 2024, the Ukrainian Armed Forces posted images on their social media platforms documenting the receipt by Russian forces of Iranian-made 120mm mortar shells equipped with an AZ111-A2 advanced High-Explosive (HE ) mortar fuze. This packing list, dated November 2023, is a detailed firing table for a 120 mm HE (High Explosive) mortar bomb, revealing precise information on components, explosive charges, and operational parameters.
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Iran 122mm Mortar Shells being used by Russia in Ukraine (Picture source: Ukraine social media)

The AZ111-A2 is an advanced High-Explosive (HE) mortar fuze originating from Iran, known for its aluminum composition. It is a setback-armed, impact-fired device featuring Point-Detonating Super-Quick (PDSQ) capabilities for both impact and delay functions, offering enhanced sensitivity over its predecessor, the AM111-A1. This fuse is essentially a replica of the German DA111-A2 model.

Designed as Point-Detonating (PD) impact fuzes, the Iranian AM111 series includes an optional delay feature, adjustable via a turnscrew located on the fuze's side. Safety mechanisms are integrated into the design through a rotor mechanism, which is regulated by a mechanical escapement system. This rotor is equipped with two detonators: one for Super-Quick (SQ) impact detonation and another for delayed action. The specific detonator to be activated is determined by the turnscrew's setting, allowing the rotor to align the selected detonator with the firing pin as needed.

Operational setup involves removing the safety wire and adjusting the setting selector before the ammunition's deployment. Upon firing, the ammunition's setback causes the plunger to retract, subsequently releasing the lockball and freeing the lock plunger, initiating the detonation process.

In 2023, contracts revealed by Sky News already confirmed that Russia had purchased nearly 40,000 122mm mortar shells from Iran. Indeed, Iran is said to have sold various types of ammunition to Russia for more than a million dollars, mainly 122mm and 152mm artillery ammunition.

The historical context of military relations between Russia and Iran dates back to the early 1960s, with multiple intergovernmental agreements signed in the field of military-technology cooperation since 1989. Over the years, Russia has supplied Iran with a range of military equipment, including long-range anti-aircraft missile systems and fighter jets. More recently, Iran has become a significant supplier of ammunition to Russia, including barrels and drones. Last year, Russia deployed Iran’s Shahed-131 and Shahed-136 drones in Ukraine, which were effective in targeting civilian infrastructure.