Iranian Air Defense Deputy Denies Israeli Fighter Jet Incursion
WANA (Nov 29) – Brigadier General Reza Khajeh, Deputy for Operations of the Iranian Army’s Air Defense Force, dismissed recent rumors regarding Israeli fighter jets allegedly flying near Iran’s borders, breaking the sound barrier, and entering Iranian airspace. He stated, “There is no truth to these reports. The Iranian people can rest assured that, since the 12-day imposed war, no threat has targeted the country’s skies.”
In a detailed interview, Brig. Gen. Khajeh also revealed for the first time the Air Defense Force’s role and operational performance during the 12-day war. The following text is the key points of his remarks.
Operations Against Israel and Western Forces
Brig. Gen. Khajeh explained that Iran was not only engaged in combat with Israel during the conflict but also faced NATO and Western-backed forces, noting that over 33 countries reportedly supported Israel. “From a technological standpoint, all Western capabilities were deployed against our country,” he said.
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He acknowledged that the conflict involved intense clashes, with some Iranian systems targeted and personnel, particularly in the missile units of the Army and the Revolutionary Guard, martyred. However, he emphasized that the integrated air defense network never ceased operations during the war.
Facing a Multitude of Threats
The Deputy for Operations stated that Iran confronted a wide array of threats, including cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, long-range and loitering weapons, and stealth aircraft, all of which required constant detection and engagement.
Responding to claims by some foreign analysts that Iran was caught off guard during Israel’s attacks, Brig. Gen. Khajeh stressed that all air defense commanders and system operators were present at their command centers well in advance. Even Air Defense Commander Amir Sabahi-Fard and Army Chief of Staff Major General Mousavi closely monitored the situation throughout.
A building stands damaged in the aftermath of Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran, June 13, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Combat Performance
Brig. Gen. Khajeh noted that the first wave of attacks involved cruise and long-range threats, without the entry of fighter jets. “Israel launched a combined attack against our country, but through the dedication, courage, and perseverance of our personnel, the Islamic Republic of Iran and its people emerged victorious,” he said.
He added that U.S. support for Israel during the conflict extended beyond nuclear site operations, assisting Israel with radar and missile systems along Iran’s borders. Despite this, Iranian air defense systems successfully intercepted 196 enemy aircraft, including Heron and Hermes drones, many of which were tasked with command, control, and target acquisition.
Heroism Under Fire
Brig. Gen. Khajeh recounted that some systems were targeted, and personnel sustained injuries while continuing operations. In total, 35 air defense personnel lost their lives defending Iranian airspace. He praised their bravery and reaffirmed that Iranian forces, equipped with domestic technologies, effectively engaged enemy aircraft despite sanctions and technological gaps.
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Ongoing Strengthening and Future Capabilities
He confirmed that weaknesses identified during the war were promptly addressed by Iranian scientists and defense industries, with ongoing improvements being integrated into operational units. “I assure you, any future threats to our country will be met with a decisive response,” Brig. Gen. Khajeh said.
He further highlighted that Iran aims to achieve the capability to track and neutralize advanced enemy fighter jets, a goal comparable to the nation’s rapid advancements in missile technology.
Drone Defense Success
Brig. Gen. Khajeh explained that drones such as Heron, Hermes 450, and Hermes 900, which were largely used for command and control, were intercepted and destroyed, thwarting many of the enemy’s operational plans.
Tribute to Fallen Air Defenders
Concluding the interview, he honored the memory of all “martyrs”, especially the 35 air defense personnel who sacrificed their lives during the 12-day war, affirming that the courage and resilience of Iranian air defense forces remain a cornerstone of national security.
