Iran is offering advanced weapons systems — including ballistic missiles, drones and warships — to foreign governments in exchange for cryptocurrency, as it seeks to bypass Western financial sanctions.
The proposal comes from Iran’s Ministry of Defence Export Center (Mindex), a state-run body overseeing overseas arms sales. Promotional materials reviewed by the Financial Times indicate the agency is willing to accept payment in digital currencies, as well as through barter deals or Iranian rials.
Introduced over the past year, the initiative appears to be one of the first instances of a nation state openly signalling its readiness to accept cryptocurrency for the export of strategic military equipment. Mindex claims to have defence clients in 35 countries and advertises a catalogue that includes Emad ballistic missiles, Shahed drones, Shahid Soleimani-class warships, air defence systems, and other weapons.
While pricing details are not publicly disclosed, the agency says payments can be arranged in destination countries and offers in-person inspections in Iran, subject to security approvals.
The move highlights a broader trend among heavily sanctioned states turning to alternative financial channels — including cryptocurrencies — to sustain trade in sensitive goods. Western authorities have previously accused Iran of using digital assets to facilitate oil sales and move funds outside the traditional banking system.
The development comes amid renewed international pressure on Tehran over its nuclear programme and tighter enforcement of sanctions by the US and its allies. According to the Stockholm Institute for Peace Research, Iran ranked 18th globally in major arms exports in 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Iran offering to accept cryptocurrency for weapons sales?
Iran is seeking alternative payment channels to bypass Western sanctions that restrict access to the global banking system.
What types of weapons are reportedly included in these offers?
The catalogue includes advanced systems such as ballistic missiles, drones, warships, air defence systems, and other military hardware.
Is this common for nation states to accept crypto for arms exports?
No. This appears to be one of the first known cases of a country publicly indicating willingness to accept cryptocurrency for strategic weapons sales.
How does this impact global sanctions enforcement?
Using digital assets complicates monitoring and enforcement, making it harder for Western authorities to track and block sanctioned transactions.
What are the broader geopolitical implications?
The move signals a shift toward alternative financial networks among sanctioned states, potentially reshaping how sensitive goods are traded globally.
