Armenian Military Parade Appears to Include Iranian Air Defense System

Armenia’s May 28 Republic Day military parade in Yerevan included hardware from France, India, and possibly Iran, according to reports. The event showcased rocket launchers, drones, and armored vehicles, with multiple Armenian media outlets identifying partially covered Iranian AD-08 Majid air defense systems during rehearsals the prior day. The AD-08 Majid, a truck-mounted short-range missile system, was later seen in the parade with its covers removed. It is designed to detect and destroy low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as protect vital military and industrial facilities. An official announcer described the system as the 'Scorpion,' though the Iranian origin was not explicitly confirmed. The parade took place just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan ahead of June 7 parliamentary elections. A potential weapons purchase from Iran could complicate Armenia’s deepening relations with Washington, as the country balances its military alliances. The AD-08 Majid’s presence was first noted in photos shared by Armenian media during parade rehearsals on May 27. The system’s deployment during the official event suggests Armenia may be expanding its air defense capabilities, though the exact source and implications remain unclear. The timing of the parade and the apparent Iranian system highlight Armenia’s delicate diplomatic position between its Western allies and regional partners like Iran. Observers will likely scrutinize whether this move signals a shift in Armenia’s defense strategy or simply reflects existing military cooperation.