In a series of large-scale military exercises dubbed “Eqtedar 1403” (Authority 1403), the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has showcased its advanced air defense capabilities in protecting critical infrastructure, including the Natanz nuclear facility.
According to IRGC Chief Commander Major General Hossein Salami, the drills involved “various real-world scenarios” that the forces expected Iran’s enemies might attempt. “Fortunately, encouraging results and fairly valuable achievements were obtained,” Salami stated.
A key focus of the exercises was bolstering the IRGC’s air defense systems. Salami noted that this domain is “among the most determining spheres” of Iran’s defense capabilities, necessitating the “exhibition of the capabilities of our air defense systems in a nearly real-world and very precise situation.”
IRGC Fires Loitering Missile in Air Defense Drillhttps://t.co/5KPyhvsXlb pic.twitter.com/zS7lW7B1QW
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During the drills, the IRGC Aerospace Force employed a new air defense missile system equipped with loitering munitions, codenamed “358.” Additionally, the air defense division utilized point-defense tactics to protect the Natanz nuclear site, engaging with 30 aerial targets using short-range systems like Dezful and Tor-M1.
Iranian forces also activated the homegrown Dey-9 air defense missile system to practice intercepting a bunker buster dropped from a warplane. The system was able to track, intercept, and destroy the heavy weapon in less than 15 seconds at a distance of 17 kilometers from the nuclear facility.
Furthermore, the IRGC Aerospace Force operated various other air defense systems to hone their electronic warfare tactics, showcasing Iran’s commitment to bolstering its military capabilities for defensive purposes.
The Eqtedar 1403 drills underline Iran’s determination to strengthen its air defense systems and preparedness against potential threats, as reiterated by the country’s officials.
Source: Iranian media (edited by Al-Manar English Website)
