TEHRAN – The commander of Iranian Army's Air Defense Force has emphasized the strategic importance of expanding and establishing defense positions and radar sites across Iran to ensure the security of the nation.

Brigadier General Alireza Sabahifard made these remarks during his recent visit to the central air defense region of Shahid Nasr Esfahani. This visit included an inspection of the expanded defense positions and radar sites in Yazd province, where he evaluated the combat readiness and operational capabilities of the deployed units.

During the inspection, Brigadier General Sabahifard highlighted the continuous efforts of the Air Defense Force to enhance its operational efficiency by developing modern and indigenous defense equipment. "As a pioneering and operational force, the Air Defense Force always strives to accomplish its missions in the best possible way," he stated, underscoring the importance of staying technologically advanced.

Addressing the force's focus on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Sabahifard noted that in recent years, the Air Defense Force has placed special emphasis on this domain. He pointed out that despite facing comprehensive and unjust sanctions from adversaries, the force has not experienced any disruptions in its mission. "Our powerful Air Defense Force continues to ensure the security of Iran's skies with unwavering strength," he asserted.

Reiterating the strategic goals of the Air Defense Force, General Sabahifard said, "Expanding and establishing defense positions and radar sites throughout Iran to provide a safe and calm sky is one of our key programs." He further explained that the ongoing efforts for growth and development are crucial, as a nation's military and operational power hinges on strengthening its defense and deterrence capabilities.

In recent years, Iranian military specialists and engineers have achieved notable advancements in producing a diverse array of domestically developed equipment, fostering self-reliance within the armed forces.

Officials from Iran affirm their commitment to enhancing the nation's military capabilities, emphasizing their defensive nature.

Iran unequivocally states that negotiations will not affect its defense capabilities. Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, consistently emphasizes the importance of maintaining and enhancing Iran's defense capabilities.

Commander urges nation to make informed, insightful choice in runoff election 

In a broader political context, the commander commented on the significance of the recent presidential election, describing the informed and insightful choice of the people in the runoff as a continuation of the prideful victory of June 28. 

He expressed his hope that the final elected representative of the republic would follow the path and principles of the late president and his martyred companions, thereby ensuring that the country's progress and prosperity reach their intended goals with divine support.

The results of Iran’s 14th presidential election indicate that the race will go to a runoff between Massoud Pezeshkian and Saeed Jalili, scheduled for July 5.

This election was conducted a year earlier than planned. The snap election was called after a helicopter crash in Iran’s northwestern mountains on May 19 resulted in the deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, and six others. According to Iran’s Constitution, a new president must be elected by public vote within 50 days of a president’s death or incapacitation.