BREAKING: US Sanctions Nigerian Firm Over Alleged Role in Iran Missile Deal

• The US sanctions Nigerian firm Vanguard Tactical Supply Limited over allegations that it helped Iran seek Chinese-made air-defence missiles using false end-users.

The United States has imposed additional sanctions on Nigeria-based Vanguard Tactical Supply Limited over allegations that it helped Iran seek Chinese-made man-portable air-defence systems, commonly known as MANPADS.

The action, announced on November 4, also targeted Mohammed Ali Tolibov, chief executive of Belarus-based Armory Alliance, and Russia-based Alisher Domullodzhanov. Washington accused the company and the two individuals of facilitating Iran’s efforts to obtain the weapons.

According to a State Department fact sheet, Vanguard Tactical Supply Limited was involved in procurement efforts that used false end-users to conceal the intended recipient of Chinese-origin MANPADS. The company had previously been designated under Executive Order 13382 and now faces an additional designation under Executive Order 13949, which targets activities involving conventional arms and Iran.

The US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control lists the company’s address in Wuse 2, Abuja. Its November 4 update added the Iran conventional-arms sanctions designation to Vanguard’s existing entry.

Two individuals also targeted

The State Department alleged that Tolibov contributed to Armory Alliance’s efforts to procure weapons for Iran.

It described Armory Alliance as an intermediary between companies in China and Iran, alleging that it had sought to facilitate the purchase of hundreds of MANPADS. Tolibov and the company had previously faced US sanctions.

Domullodzhanov, who is based in Russia, was also accused of involvement in efforts to facilitate MANPADS procurement for Tehran. OFAC added him to its sanctions list on November 4.

Washington warns arms suppliers

The State Department said the measures formed part of Operation Economic Outcast, its campaign against Iran’s military procurement networks.

The latest action followed earlier designations on May 8, June 10 and July 15, 2026. Washington said the successive sanctions were intended to make it harder and more expensive for Iran to obtain weapons and to reinforce United Nations restrictions restored in September 2025.

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

The department said Iran’s procurement efforts threatened US national security and pledged to continue working with international partners to restrict weapons transfers that could endanger American forces and regional security.

What the sanctions mean

Under the announced measures, property and interests in property belonging to the designated parties that fall within US jurisdiction, or are held or controlled by US persons, are blocked and must be reported to OFAC.

The restrictions also extend to entities owned, directly or indirectly, at least 50 per cent by one or more blocked persons.