A large Russian military transport plane, the IL-76, landed briefly in Tehran, quickly unloaded its cargo, and returned to Moscow — triggering widespread speculation about its purpose. 

Multiple reports confirm that the four-engine IL-76, known for carrying heavy loads including armored vehicles and weapons, made a short and secretive stop in Iran.

The plane’s swift unloading and rapid takeoff have raised questions about the nature of the mission. Designed during the Soviet era, the IL-76 can carry up to 50 tons of cargo and is often used for sensitive or military operations, including previous weapons deliveries to conflict zones like Syria.