TEHRAN - The Iranian Army’s cutting-edge drone system has been a source of global acclaim for the country which underscores the nation's deterrence capabilities, the Air Defense Force deputy chief said on Monday.

Second Brigadier General Amir Mohammad Khoshghalb expressed deep pride in attaining these advanced aerial assets, highlighting their strategic importance in safeguarding the country. 

He drew attention to the remarkable progress achieved by the country. This progress, he emphasized, is not merely technological but serves as a resilient response to attempts to undermine the spirit and unity of the nation. 

Khoshghalb also stressed the pivotal role of unity among the people and officials in fortifying the nation's unprecedented success and strength.

The commander also highlighted the imperative of raising awareness and vigilance, particularly among the younger generation, to effectively counter enemy propaganda. 

Underscoring the research-oriented initiatives within the defense industry spearheaded by the air defense forces, he said these initiatives have yielded positive results through collaboration with professionals and experts in the field.

Expressing national pride, the commander emphasized that achieving advanced military drones holds special significance, especially within the realm of air defense. He asserted that the country is globally recognized as a technological powerhouse, urging the public and officials alike to acknowledge and value this progress.

Khoshghalb concluded his address by outlining the broader achievements of the defense industry, spanning from missiles to drones and various defense equipment. 

These accomplishments, he asserted, not only contribute to defensive capabilities but also signal a promising future in defense and deterrence. 

Furthermore, he framed increased domestically-developed production in the military industry and self-sufficiency in defense equipment as a resounding response to hostile actions and unwarranted sanctions. These drones, according to Khoshghalb, have been fully developed in Iran, leveraging the latest technologies for fight against electronic war, and simultaneously engaging with multiple targets.

In his closing remarks, he emphasized that the nation's remarkable progress is indicative of the huge failure of Iran’s enemies who were determined to undermine the nation, weaken morale, and sow discord in the country.

In a significant stride to bolster its defense capabilities, the Iranian army proudly announced the successful acquisition of new military drones in January 2024. The Ababil-4 and Ababil-5, designed for a spectrum of missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, electronic warfare, signal gathering, and combat, were integral to this strategic acquisition. Additionally, the integration included Arash and Bavar drones, equipped with capabilities for destructive, long-range, and precision-strike missions. Furthermore, Jet Karrar drones were tailored for target acquisition, combat, and aerial tracking missions.

In recent years, Iranian military experts and engineers have made noteworthy breakthroughs in producing a diverse range of indigenous equipment, achieving self-sufficiency. Iranian officials have reaffirmed the nation's steadfast commitment to enhancing military capabilities, including missile power, for defense and deterrence purposes only. 

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has on several occasions called for efforts to boost national defense capabilities.