US sanctions Nigeria-based entity over Iran missile procurement

The United States has sanctioned a Nigeria-based entity, Vanguard Tactical Supply Limited, for trying to facilitate Iran’s efforts to procure man-portable air-defense systems, MANPADS.

The government also imposed sanctions on Mohammed Ali Tolibov (CEO of Belarus-based Armoury Alliance) and Alisher Domullodzhanov (based in Russia).

The US linked the trio to the acquisition of Chinese-origin MANPADS, such as QW and FN series missiles, with the company and individuals acting as intermediaries using false end-users.

The Department of State said the sanctions, consistent with Operation Economic Outcast, are the latest in a series of US actions against Iran’s arms purchasing networks.

The action follows designations on May 8, June 10, and July 15, 2026, which Washington said make it harder and more costly for Tehran to arm itself, and reinforce the UN restrictions restored in September 2025.

The US reiterated that Iran’s military procurement efforts threaten its national security, and reaffirmed its determination to hold the Iranian leadership responsible.

“Anyone who helps the regime build its arsenal should expect to be held accountable,” the Trump administration warned.

MANPADS are lightweight, shoulder-launched, surface-to-air guided missiles designed for a soldier or a small crew to target and destroy low-flying aircraft, helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles.

Reports say Iran is working to purchase hundreds of China-manufactured systems to strengthen low-altitude defense against drones and aircraft, though Chinese officials have disputed the claim.

Meanwhile, Russia and Iran are in negotiations over the transfer of advanced S-400 air-defense systems, as well as drone components, and MANPADS to Tehran.

The Telegraph reported on Friday that Iran’s National Security Council Secretary, Mohsen Rezaei, delivered the request to President Vladimir Putin during Thursday’s meeting in the Kremlin.

Talks covered continued Russian supplies of fiber-optic drone components and Verba MANPADS under a €495 million contract signed in December 2025 for 500 launchers and 2,500 missiles, aimed at rebuilding Iran’s defenses.