Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) has unveiled a new loitering munition that has been integrated into the air defense system protecting the Natanz nuclear facility, the Mehr news agency reported on Tuesday.

As part of a joint military exercise, the IRGC Aerospace Force launched the loitering missile to bolster the air defense capabilities surrounding the Natanz nuclear facility in Isfahan.

The news agency noted that details regarding the specifications and capabilities of this drone-based defensive missile have yet to be disclosed by the IRGC Aerospace Force.

This exercise is being conducted under the framework of the Armed Forces' "Might" drills, during which the defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed hostile drones and missiles.

Mehr highlighted that in recent days, Iran's Armed Forces, including the IRGC and the army, have commenced large-scale military exercises involving air defense units and domestically-produced military equipment.

It added that the objective of these drills is to enhance the protection of the country’s airspace and critical infrastructure.

Last week, three sources revealed to Axios that White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan presented outgoing US President Biden with options for a potential US strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, should Iran develop a nuclear weapon before Donald Trump takes office.

According to the sources, Biden and his national security team recently discussed various options regarding Iran's nuclear program, but no final decision was made.

The meeting, held about a month ago, was not prompted by new intelligence but rather as part of "prudent scenario planning" for potential US responses if Iran escalates its nuclear activities.

Some of Biden's closest advisors have argued privately that the acceleration of Iran's nuclear program and the war that the Axis of Resistance had endured provided Biden with both a need and a chance to attack.

Sources told Axios that some of Biden's aides, including Sullivan, believe that the degradation of Iran's air defenses and missile capabilities, as well as significantly weakening allies would increase the chances of a successful strike while lowering the risk of Iranian retaliation and regional escalation.

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