Iran says air defense systems deployed at over 3,800 locations

In a televised interview on Tuesday, Second Brigadier General Mohammad Sadeghian of Iran's Air Defense Force congratulated the establishment anniversary of Khatam al-Anbiya Air Defense Base and National Air Defense Day. He outlined the force's four main missions: detection, reconnaissance, interception, and engagement of aerial targets.

General Sadeghian explained that the primary mission is to detect any flying object in Iran's skies and even beyond. After detection, the identification phase begins, and if necessary, interception is carried out by fighter aircraft or engagement using missiles and defense systems. The ultimate goal is to prevent hostile aircraft from completing their missions or to destroy them if needed.

He emphasized that air defense is not limited to wartime. Every passenger plane entering the country's airspace or traveling between cities, as well as helicopters and aircraft on relief missions, operate under air defense coordination and permits.

The general stated that air defense forces are present in more than 3,800 locations across the country, many in difficult-to-access areas. Iran's diverse geography means forces are stationed in deserts, coasts, islands, and highlands. Surveillance units, equipped with special equipment, electro-optical systems, and state-of-the-art technologies, along with a radar network, monitor and control the country's skies and beyond 24 hours a day.

According to Mehr News, the remarks were made during an interview marking the occasion, with the report adding that the air defense network is a key component of Iran's national security infrastructure.