WANA (May 19) – Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, announced significant progress in the country’s air defense readiness during a high-level operational meeting of the Khatam al-Anbiya Joint Air Defense Base.

 

Speaking at the session, General Bagheri stated that the meeting was aimed at evaluating the recent advancements made by the Army’s Air Defense Force, the IRGC’s Aerospace Division, and the Khatam al-Anbiya Joint Air Defense Headquarters. “Today, we are witnessing a remarkable boost in our air defense capabilities and readiness,” he said.

 

He revealed that in some sectors, Iran has increased its deployment of radar and surveillance systems by up to five times compared to last year, significantly enhancing the detection and monitoring of foreign movements.

 

“In terms of engagement and interception systems, the capability to track and neutralize hostile aircraft has doubled or even tripled in certain areas,” Bagheri noted.

 

Emphasizing efforts to identify vulnerabilities and address shortcomings, the top commander said, “Our command and control systems are operating effectively, and the airspace is under constant surveillance. The Armed Forces remain at full operational readiness.”

 

Bagheri added that Iranian air defense personnel are on continuous alert and regularly conduct drills to prepare for all possible scenarios. He issued a stern warning to adversaries, saying, “The ill-wishers of the Iranian nation and the enemies must know that any violation of Iran’s sovereign space will inflict considerable harm on them, and without a doubt, the costs they will face will far exceed whatever results they might anticipate.”

 

He concluded by stating that ongoing investments in strengthening air defense capabilities across the armed forces will lead to continued and notable improvements in the future.