Iran strengthens air defense at nuclear sites in bold war game move

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
12 Jan 2025 13:53

The joint exercise, involving both the Iranian Army and the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC), began on January 7.

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On Saturday, February 17, 2024, former Defense Minister General Mohammad Reza Gharaei Ashtiani reviews the domestically built Arman air defense system (Iranian Defense Ministry via AP)

Iranian air defense units, participating in a large-scale military drill, have concentrated on safeguarding two nuclear facilities in the northern provinces of Markazi and Qom.

The joint exercise, involving both the Army and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), began on January 7.

On Sunday, the drill zone was shifted to the northern and western regions of the country.

The air defense forces have been rehearsing strategies to protect the Fordow nuclear site in Qom and the Khondab nuclear facility in Markazi. The Army Air Defense is simulating defense against aerial and missile attacks targeting these crucial sites.

Additionally, last week, the IRGC Aerospace Force's air defense division practiced point-defense tactics to protect the Natanz nuclear site from various aerial threats, including potential electronic warfare.

The forces also activated the Dey-9 air defense missile system, which successfully intercepted a bunker buster dropped by a warplane. This homegrown system is capable of tracking, intercepting, and destroying a bunker buster in under 15 seconds at a range of 17 kilometers from the target nuclear facility.

Iran's army to integrate over 1,000 drones in upcoming operations

The Chief of Staff and Deputy Commander of the Iranian Army for Coordination Affairs has lately announced that the Army is preparing to receive new strategic equipment in the near future.

During the recent unveiling of new equipment in Army drills, Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari, Chief of Staff and Deputy Commander of the Iranian Army for Coordination Affairs highlighted the integration of 1,000 strategic drones into the Islamic Republic of Iran Army. These drones are expected to possess high range, precision, and destructive power.

Sayyari also mentioned that the Iranian Army Ground Force will be receiving new equipment in the near future. Additionally, he revealed that the first phase of the second marine area in Jask will soon be inaugurated, with new port facilities and breakwaters to be showcased in that region.