Did Vladimir Putin quietly arm Iran before the war, setting the stage for a direct clash with United States air power? Reports suggest a covert £450 million deal delivered hundreds of 9K333 Verba launchers and thousands of 9M336 missile rounds, possibly used to down an F-15 Eagle. While Iran denies Russian involvement, analysts point to advanced infrared tracking that defeats flares. Donald Trump praised a daring rescue mission, highlighting escalating tensions and deepening Moscow-Tehran military ties.