Dec 17, 2024 - News

Mass. man helped export tech used in Jordan drone strike, feds say

Mike Deehan

a military installation — Satellite imagery of Tower 22 in northern Jordan. Photo: Getty Images.

Federal authorities have arrested a Natick resident in connection with the illegal export of technology used in a January strike in Jordan that killed three U.S. service members.

Driving the news: Those charged are Mahdi Mohammad Sadeghi, 42, a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen living in Natick, and Mohammad Abedininajafabadi, 38, who was arrested in Milan.

Both face criminal charges of conspiring to export sophisticated tech to Iran, the U.S. Attorney's Office announced.

Zoom in: FBI specialists traced the drone's navigation system to Abedininajafabadi, who, authorities allege, worked with Sadeghi to circumvent export laws through a front company.

Catch up quick: The Jan. 28 attack targeted Tower 22, a U.S. outpost in northeastern Jordan. Over 40 people were injured.

What's next: The Justice Department is seeking Abedininajafabadi's extradition to the U.S.

Sadeghi remains in custody. Authorities indicated they may seek more charges.

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Mass. man helped export tech used in Jordan drone strike, feds say

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