Iran's new strategic weapon against small aircraft.

Iran's Sayyad-2 air defense missile system. Photo: AFP

According to a report by the Vietnam News Agency correspondent in the Middle East, on November 16, Iranian Deputy Defense Minister General Qassem Taqizadeh stated that Iran is producing laser air defense systems and also plans to improve the range and accuracy of its cruise missiles.

General Taqizadeh asserted that Iran has acquired laser-based air defense technology that can be used against small aircraft and drones. According to Taqizadeh, this system has been tested and is currently in production.

General Taqizadeh stated that new digital systems and mapping are being used to improve the range and accuracy of domestically produced cruise missiles. This is part of a multi-stage testing project that could be completed in the near future.

Referring to Iran's ballistic missile capabilities, Taqizadeh said Tehran has almost completed a project to upgrade its entire range of surface-to-surface missiles with very high-precision strike capabilities.

Furthermore, according to General Taqizadeh, Iran's Qaher F-313 stealth fighter jet is also undergoing continued testing. The Qaher F-313 project was announced in 2013 and has since undergone various testing and development phases.

On the same day, Iranian Defense Minister General Amir Hatami declared that the only way to effectively counter sanctions against the Islamic Republic is to strengthen its internal capabilities in all areas, especially defense.

According to General Hatami, Iran's defense sector is achieving considerable success in overcoming sanctions imposed on the country. Minister Hatami asserted that Iran has become a regional power thanks to its influence and resilience.

Mr. Hatami made the statement at a special conference on sanctions targeting Iran's defense sector. Iran has announced numerous projects to domestically produce military equipment and defense systems amid years of ongoing sanctions.