The Iranian Ministry of Defense has revealed an advanced anti-ballistic missile (ABM) defense system and a low-altitude air defense (LAAD) system, both created entirely by the nation's military experts.

The unveiling took place in Tehran during a ceremony on Saturday, attended by Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani.

The domestically developed Arman (Aspiration) anti-ballistic missile (ABM) defense system, alternatively referred to as Tactical Sayyad (Hunter), possesses the capability to identify and monitor 24 targets at a distance of 180 kilometers (111 miles). Additionally, it can engage six to 12 targets simultaneously within a range of 120 kilometers (74.5 miles).

Reportedly, it is equipped with short-range self-defense capabilities, distinguishing it from the Khordad-3 and Khordad-15 systems.

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A self-protection mechanism is integrated into one of the missile turrets of the Arman ABM defense system, rendering the weapon impervious to potential low-altitude threats. Furthermore, the enhanced air defense system boasts increased mobility, achieved by consolidating its radars and missile launchers into a single vehicle.

It is worth noting that the Azarakhsh (Thunderbolt) low-altitude defense system is designed to deliver close-range, low-altitude, surface-to-air weapon capabilities to safeguard forward combat zones, maneuvering forces, critical areas, installations, and/or units involved in special or independent operations.

Military advances on display

Commemorating the 45th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution on February 11, a display made available to the public showcased several weapons and systems indigenously developed by the Islamic Republic.

The display included the medium-range Khorramshahr-4 ballistic missile, the Haj Qassem ballistic missile, the intermediate-range and two-stage Sejjil ballistic missile, the Kheibar-Shekan ballistic missile, the short-range Qiam-1 ballistic missile, and the Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis cruise missile.

Iran's recently developed air defense systems were also seen at the display, including the third Khordad air defense system, the Khordad-15 air defense system, and the short-range Majid mobile air defense system. 

Some of the products of Iran's leading unmanned aerial vehicles were also seen at the celebration, including the Shahed-136 suicide drone, the stealth and jet-powered Shahed-171 drone, the Mohajer-6 multirole UAV. Fighter and training jets, as well as helicopters developed in Iran, were also seen in the form of miniature models. 

In recent years, Iranian military experts and engineers have achieved significant advancements in producing a diverse array of domestic weapons, ensuring self-reliance for the armed forces. Iranian authorities have consistently emphasized the nation's commitment to enhancing military capabilities, particularly in missile power, solely for defensive purposes. They maintain that Iran's defense capabilities are non-negotiable.

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