Two privately built Iranian satellites, Koswar and Hodhod, are set to be launched into a 500-kilometer orbit by a Russian Soyuz rocket early Tuesday.

This development marks a significant step in the Iran-Russia space collaboration, highlighting growing scientific and technological ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, including Russia's conflict in Ukraine.

The launch is scheduled for 02:48 Tehran time (2318 GMT on Monday), according to Iranian ambassador Kazem Jalali.

The satellites, developed by Iran's Omid Faza Company, aim to enhance agriculture, environmental monitoring, and communications in remote regions.

While the West has expressed concerns regarding Iran's space endeavors potentially advancing its ballistic missile program, Tehran maintains its space activities are peaceful and in line with UN resolutions.

This launch also represents Iran's private sector's maiden venture into space.