IRGC Ground Force kicks off large-scale military drill in northwestern Iran
The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC)’s Ground Force has launched a large-scale military exercise in Iran’s northwestern border regions with the participation of various units.
The drill, codenamed the IRGC Ground Force’s Authority, began on Monday in Aras region, which covers the northern sectors of East Azarbaijan and Ardabil provinces and lies along the country’s northwestern borders.
According to IRGC Ground Force Commander Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour, the large-scale war game is aimed at carrying out operations based on an annual routine in order to boost its combat preparedness.
The commander said that heliborne parachute operations, night raid operations, helicopter combat operations, and suicide drone operations are to be carried out during the exercise.
Construction of a temporary bridge over the Aras River, seizure and control of supply roads and heights, and offensives as well as destructive operations against designated targets constitute other parts of the drill, Pakpour added.
He underlined that while the military exercise conveys the message of peace, friendship and lasting security to neighboring countries, it represents a potential tough response to enemies.
Iranian military forces hold routine exercises according to a detailed schedule in various parts of the country in order to test their weaponry and equipment and evaluate their combat preparedness.
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.
