Iran’s presidential nominee for defense minister announces plans to develop ‘jump jets and AI-powered drone swarms.’
Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh, recently appointed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to lead the Ministry of Defense, has submitted his plans for advancing the nation's defense sector to the parliament.
Nasirzadeh, now the deputy chief of staff for the Iranian Armed Forces and former commander of the Air Force from 2018 to 2021, presented his proposals to the legislative assembly on Wednesday.
The plans detailed his vision for further expanding the Islamic Republic’s capabilities in aerial and naval warfare, missile technology, air defense systems, and the aerospace sector, among other areas.
To bolster the Air Force, the senior military leader advocated for the design and production of “jump jets,” which possess vertical takeoff and landing capabilities. Additionally, he suggested advancing artificial intelligence technology within the nation’s drone fleet to better prepare it for coordinated swarm flight operations.
Nasirzadeh proposed the creation of versatile heavy destroyers by acquiring the necessary technology. Additionally, he recommended the improvement and manufacturing of high-speed vessels equipped to launch cruise missiles.
To advance the missile industry, he recommended enhancing the nation’s ability to manufacture a variety of ballistic, cruise, and air defense missiles with different ranges and capabilities to meet the present and future requirements of the Armed Forces.
The official, on the other hand, called for further advancements in the nation’s space technology, proposing enhancements in satellite launcher technology and capacity, with the aim of deploying over 20 satellites into orbit in the coming years.
Part of his strategy includes leveraging defense diplomacy to boost the export of defense products, enhancing engagement with neighboring countries along with Latin American and African nations, and establishing essential platforms aimed at doubling defense product exports.
In response to sanctions, Iran has focused on its internal efforts and expertise to achieve notable progress in bolstering the self-reliance of its military forces.
Following the guidance of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Iranian authorities have consistently emphasized that they are committed to bolstering the nation’s military capabilities. These enhancements are solely for defensive purposes and are not open to negotiation.
