Iran’s Air Defense capabilities restricting foreign forces in region: Senior cmdr.

The chief commander of the Iranian Army’s Air Defense Force has praised the formidable defense capabilities of his unit and its ability to employ cutting-edge military weapons and equipment to effectively deter foreign forces from encroaching in the West Asia region.

Brigadier General Alireza Sabahifard made the remark in a ceremony held in Khatam al-Anbia Air Defense Academy in the capital Tehran on Tuesday as he pointed to the significant role of research in his unit’s achievements and deterrence power.

“In the Air Defense Force, paying heed to training, research, scientific development and the skills of personnel are among the pivotal strategies,” Sabahifard said.

Khatam Al-Anbia Air Defense Academy, as the authority in the air defense of the Armed Forces, “tries to develop the Army’s defense in all areas, and maintain and promote the strength and combat readiness of the force,” he added.

The senior Iranian commander pointed to the wide and diverse use of weapons in line with the multi-layered defense of the country’s air borders, saying, “The capabilities of the Army’s Air Defense Force have limited foreign forces in the region.”

Stressing that conducting research in the Air Defense Force is a must, Sabahifard also said, “Scientific progress accompanied by insight and vigilance, while reducing the effect of sanctions, has placed the air defense in a superior position, which is a source of pride for everyone.”

Iran ready to hold joint air defense drills with friendly countries: Commander

A high-ranking commander expressed the Iranian Air Defense’s readiness to hold joint military exercises with friendly states and allies.

The senior commander praised the force’s improving capabilities in operational systems and equipment, saying, “The defense power and combat readiness of the defense forces are being strengthened and improved round the clock; the Air Defense Force takes decisive and serious measures against any possible threat and will not hesitate in this regard.”

Addressing a group of foreign military attachés in Tehran on Monday, Sabahifard said the country is ready to share its defense experience with friendly countries and stage joint exercises with them, stressing that the Islamic Republic’s message for the allied and friendly countries is “peace and friendship."

Iranian military experts and engineers have in recent years made remarkable breakthroughs in manufacturing a broad range of indigenous equipment, making the armed forces self-sufficient.

Iranian officials have repeatedly underscored that the country will not hesitate to strengthen its military capabilities, including its missile power, which are entirely meant for defense, and that Iran’s defense capabilities will be never subject to negotiations.

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has repeatedly called for efforts to maintain and boost Iran’s defense capabilities.

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