Iran Bolsters Naval Capabilities With Advanced Missile Systems, Drones
Iran sent a new shipment of domestically developed weapons, including drones and long-range missiles, to the navy of its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Saturday, according to the semiofficial Tasnim News Agency.
Tasnim reported that the shipment included cruise and ballistic missiles with ranges up to 1,000 km (600 miles), as well as armored vehicles, surveillance systems, and both combat and reconnaissance drones. According to IRGC Navy chief Commodore Alireza Tangsiri, the missiles have more advanced operational features and are part of a weapons infusion that is an “important and effective step” in strengthening Iran’s naval power.
“Iran has gained its military power despite the enemies’ sanctions,” added IRGC chief Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami at the weapons handover ceremony.
In tandem with the weapons delivery, the US offered its guards to bolster Iranian commercial ships passing the Strait of Hormuz. This offer was roundly rejected by Brig. Gen. Abolfazl Shekarchi, who responded that regional powers were already “capable of ensuring Persian Gulf security.”
“What do the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Indian Ocean have to do with America? What is your business being here?” Shekarchi, spokesperson for the Iranian Armed Forces, told Tasnim.
