Iran Air Force to hold massive drills in central province

The Islamic Republic of Iran’s Air Force (IRIAF) is to hold massive three-day maneuvers in the central province of Isfahan.

The large-scale drills, codenamed Fada’eeyan-e Harim-e Velayat 6 (Devotees of the Velayat Sanctuary 6) will begin on Monday.

A variety of Air Force interceptor aircraft and fighter bombers will take part in the maneuvers, Brigadier General Massoud Rouzkhosh, the spokesman for the drills, said on Sunday.

He added that transport planes, reconnaissance aircraft and refueling planes in addition to different types of drones will take part in the military maneuvers.

Rouzkhosh emphasized that the drills would be held to partially display the high capabilities of Iran’s Air Force in safeguarding the country’s airspace.

Iran’s Air Force successfully wrapped up major drills dubbed Fada’eeyan-e Harim-e Velayat 5 in the province of Isfahan in September 2015.

The drills were held to convey Iran’s message of security, stability, friendship and lasting peace to regional countries.

Various military aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, cargo planes, drones and reconnaissance aircraft were deployed in the two-day exercises.

The Air Force also conducted reconnaissance and data transfer missions, hit air and ground targets and practiced civil defense tactics.

The Air Force holds annual drills to boost its capabilities in defending Iran’s airspace against any possible aggression.

In recent years, Iran has made major breakthroughs in its defense sector and attained self-sufficiency in producing important military equipment and systems.

The Islamic Republic has conducted several military drills to enhance the defense capabilities of its Armed Forces and to test modern military tactics and equipment.

Iran says its military might poses no threat to other countries, stating that its defense doctrine is based on deterrence.