Iran is set to launch two satellites under a deal with Russia, the Iranian media has reported.

The Tehran Times said Russia and Iran inked the deal during last week`s visit to Moscow by Iranian Communications and Information Technology Minister Reza Taqipour.

"The new satellites, which are designed and produced to decrease telecom traffic between Russia and Europe, will be equipped with filming applications and data-image transmission sensors," Iran`s Press TV said.

Western powers suspect Iran of using its space program to develop its missile capabilities. Iran has denied the charge.

In 2005, Iran sent its first commercial satellite, Sina-1, into orbit from a Russian rocket.

Iran`s first research satellite, Omid (Hope), designed for gathering information and testing equipment, was orbited in February 2009 and successfully completed its mission several months later.

Iran blasted the Kavoshgar 1 rocket into space in February 2008. The Kavoshgar 2 rocket, carrying a space-lab and a restoration system, was launched in November 2008.

The upgraded version of the rocket, Kavoshgar 3, carrying a satellite with an "experimental capsule" was launched in February. State media said the domestically-built rocket was carrying a rat, a turtle and worms into space for research purposes.

In Febuary the Islamic Republic also presented the domestically-produced Tolou, Mesbah-2 and Navid telecommunication satellites.
sections: Politics, World News