Iran Air Force’s offensive drones successfully engaged and neutralized designated targets amidst extensive military exercises
During the ongoing Zolfaghar 1403 joint military exercises in southern Iran, the Iranian Army's 15 Khordad air defense system, alongside the offensive Arash drone, successfully engaged and neutralized simulated enemy targets.
Brigadier General Alireza Sheikh, the spokesperson for the exercises, announced that the Iranian Air Defense Force successfully utilized the domestically developed 15 Khordad system to detect and engage simulated enemy aerial targets. These targets had been strategically positioned within the system’s operational range by the nation’s Integrated Air Defense Network on Tuesday.
He stated that the mission encompassed the detection, monitoring, and interception of incoming threats.
The official reported that the apparatus executed the exercises seamlessly, utilizing information from the Zolfaqar passive detection and location system. This advanced technology successfully identified the precise three-dimensional coordinates of enemy aircraft.
He stated that this data was subsequently transmitted to engagement systems, allowing them to effectively eliminate the target with precision.
The Zolfaqar system offers a strategic edge by operating stealthily without emitting signals, rendering it invisible to enemy radar detection, as highlighted by the spokesperson.
Sheikh underscored the critical need for a robust, multi-layered communication network to guarantee effective and reliable interaction among diverse air defense elements. This includes detection and identification systems, visual surveillance units, missile technologies, and data transmission infrastructures, ensuring seamless coordination and stability within defense operations.
He stated that the integrated network facilitates efficient decision-making in addressing enemy threats, consequently ensuring the successful execution of assigned operations.
The spokesperson highlighted that a central focus of the Zolfaqar 1403 drills is the execution of passive defense strategies. These measures are designed to safeguard the Army’s air defense systems and restrict adversaries from acquiring information about the nation’s military capabilities, thereby reinforcing operational security.
During ongoing military exercises, the Arash offensive unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) successfully accomplished a pivotal mission, effectively neutralizing its assigned target.
Sheikh disclosed further insights into the operation’s achievements, stating that the aircraft, which is a long-range, attack-capable uncrewed aerial vehicle, successfully flew 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) to execute a precise strike on its designated target.
According to observers, the operation demonstrated Iran’s progress in drone technology, highlighting its capacity to execute long-range precision strikes. This further solidifies the nation’s expanding military prowess within the region.
The exercises, aimed at replicating realistic combat situations, highlight the Islamic Republic of Iran’s air defense capabilities and its dedication to upholding a strong and cohesive defense framework to ensure its national security, according to officials.
