Where Are Iran’s Missiles Hidden?
WANA (Sep 08) – Deep underground, with no visible trace on the surface, structures lie buried—each capable of carrying a powerful message. This new innovation by Iran’s Aerospace Force has introduced a fresh dimension to missile warfare.
In recent years, Iran has reshaped its defense strategy by focusing on “active deterrence,” developing missile systems, and employing advanced technologies. A striking example of this approach was the unveiling of the so-called “missile farm” during the Great Prophet military exercise—an event that drew regional and international attention to Iran’s missile capabilities.
Iran’s missile farm. Social media / WANA News Agency
From Missile Cities to Missile Farms
Iran had previously showcased its underground “missile cities,” demonstrating its ability to launch missiles from subterranean silos. This capability, forged under the pressure of sanctions and external restrictions, turned into a leap forward in military technology rather than a setback. For years, it has been a major concern for Iran’s adversaries, who have sought—through sanctions, sabotage, and even the assassination of scientists—to neutralize this strategic advantage.
The newly introduced “missile farm” takes this concept further. In this system, ballistic missiles are placed inside vertical launch capsules, buried underground, and covered with soil. This leaves no surface indicators, making it nearly impossible for adversaries to detect or track launch sites.
Iran’s underground missiles. Social media / WANA News Agency
Launch Mechanism and Protective Design
The system employs a hot vertical launch method. At ignition, the fire and gas from the missile’s engine push the soil aside, clearing a path for the missile to exit.
A key technical feature is the use of protective casings that shield the missiles from damage during long-term underground storage. These casings ensure the propulsion system activates safely, allowing missiles to be launched remotely without human intervention on-site.
A More Elusive Threat
While Iran’s missile cities were already a significant challenge for the West, the missile farm has elevated this threat to a new level. Previously, adversaries could monitor satellite imagery and track the movement of mobile launchers.
Now, with buried capsules leaving no signs on the surface, the possibility of preempting or intercepting an Iranian launch has become extremely limited. This means a missile strike could be launched at any time, from any place.
Part of Iran’s Defense Architecture
The missile farm represents a new chapter in Iran’s defense doctrine. It allows the armed forces to respond to any potential aggression swiftly and without repositioning assets. Such a capability is particularly critical against surprise attacks or cyber operations that could compromise mobile systems.
The unveiling of this system came amid heightened regional tensions and the presence of foreign forces in the Persian Gulf. It sent a clear message to the United States, Israel, and their regional allies: Iran is prepared for any scenario of aggression, and its response will be fast, precise, and unpredictable.
Far beyond a technical achievement, the missile farm is a cornerstone of Iran’s active deterrence strategy. It enhances Iran’s position in regional security calculations and signals a new stage in the evolution of modern warfare.
Iran’s Army chief Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi and Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri visit drones at an underground site at an undisclosed location in Iran, in this picture obtained on May 28, 2022. Iranian Army/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
