Iran’s drone exports remain resilient despite external pressures, with international demand experiencing rapid growth, according to a defense official
A high-ranking Iranian military official has asserted that intensified efforts to limit the nation's technology and drone export capabilities will no longer influence its operations.
Brigadier General Afshin Khajeh Fard, the chief of Iran’s Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO), announced on Friday that numerous countries have expressed strong interest in acquiring Iran’s technological advancements and drone capabilities, despite facing significant international restrictions.
He informed ISNA that drones produced in Iran are crucial in maintaining security and safeguarding borders in numerous nations.
He noted that over several decades, Iran’s Armed Forces have engaged in extensive scientific research and specialized efforts to advance the nation’s drone technology capabilities.
The commander highlighted the development of a comprehensive strategic plan for utilizing drones in national defense efforts.
Khajeh Fard provided additional details regarding the Iranian Defense Ministry’s initiatives to produce and equip helicopters for both the Army and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC).
He stated that the agenda currently includes the development and production of combat helicopters. Significant advancements have been achieved in making the current fleet of helicopters functional for the Army, Navy, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), thanks to effective collaboration with these military branches.
He stated that the Iranian Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO) is currently engaged in the development of combat helicopters, a process that is projected to require an additional 4-5 years for completion.
The commander announced that the manufacturing process for combat helicopters is presently in the design phase.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has recently introduced an advanced super-heavy drone, named ‘Gaza,’ along with a novel suicide drone known as the “Rezvan.” This latest development is part of the military unit’s ongoing efforts to enhance its state-of-the-art warfare capabilities.
The Gaza drone boasts an impressive wingspan of 22 meters and a takeoff weight of 3,100 kilograms. It is engineered for a flight endurance of up to 35 hours and achieves a flight speed of 350 kilometers per hour.
The Rezvan drone, designed for loitering operations, boasts a range of 20 kilometers and can remain airborne for up to 20 minutes.
In a significant advancement, the Army has revealed plans to receive a fleet of 1,000 strategically developed drones. These cutting-edge unmanned aerial vehicles have been designed and manufactured in collaboration with the Defense Ministry, bolstering the military’s capabilities.
