Iran's IRGC unveils new barrage missile system during military drills

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Forces have deployed a new anti-aircraft missile system, equipped with barrage munitions, during a large-scale military exercise.

The exercise's first phase focused on defending Iran's Natanz nuclear facility, located in the central Isfahan province, Caliber.Az reports referring to Iranian media.

The new missile system, known as the "358," was used for the first time during the drill.

The IRGC did not disclose detailed technical specifications of the system, but it is known to launch missiles from drones. The defence tactics employed during the exercise included point-defence manoeuvres, successfully intercepting and neutralizing 30 aerial targets.

Earlier, speaking at the press conference, General Ali Mohammad Naini, spokesman for the IRGC,  highlighted the significance of the ongoing "Payambar-e Azam (Great Prophet) 19" military drills. In a press conference, Naini revealed that the IRGC Aerospace Forces will soon unveil underground facilities designed to store advanced missiles and drones. These new installations aim to bolster Iran's military capabilities and safeguard its arsenal.

“The new underground facilities will house advanced missiles and drones, part of our long-term strategy for defence,” Naini stated.

He also mentioned the upcoming demonstrations of "missile and unmanned cities" as part of the drills, alongside new generations of unique drones. A separate facility for storing ships will be revealed in southern Iran.

The IRGC is also planning an extensive naval exercise in the Persian Gulf from January 18 to 23, which will involve around 300 warships. Additionally, an exercise focused on intelligent traffic control in the Strait of Hormuz is scheduled for January 11.

Naini confirmed that a large naval parade will take place on January 27, featuring approximately 2,000 military and civilian vessels. Two warships, named after martyrs "Bahman Baqeri" and "Raees Ali Delwari," will be joining the IRGC Navy fleet during the event.

In another move to demonstrate its military strength, the IRGC has announced a major exercise involving 110,000 Basij fighters in Tehran on January 10.

"Iran has long been fully prepared for large and complex battles of any scale," General Naini concluded.

By Tamilla Hasanova