ABSTRACT
Since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, an understanding of the capabilities and strategic intent of Iran has been essential for the security and defence strategies of regional actors and global powers alike. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) has contributed to this understanding through Strategic Dossiers on Iran’s two most salient sovereign capabilities: its ballistic-missile and nuclear programmes. The relationships between Iran and a number of non-state actors vary widely. Iran has developed and maintained an ability to use these relationships with extraterritorial entities to achieve its strategic ends. They have become a highly valuable and effective sovereign capability. As Iran’s capability is a strongly military one, this dossier has made extensive use of IISS defence data and analysis, including details of the military equipment of Iranian partners. Iran’s means of extending its influence are not restricted to partnerships with other entities.
