TEHRAN – In commemoration of the 13th anniversary of the martyrdom of Major General Hassan Tehrani Moghaddam, a key figure in the development of Iran's missile program, the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement hailing his legacy and the achievements of Iran's defense capabilities. 

The IRGC statement published on Tuesday, acknowledged the significant growth and advancements achieved through Tehrani Moghaddam's knowledge and expertise, which have strengthened the nation's future and ensured the safety of Iran against the threats posed by the enemies.

“The Iranian nation's resolute and guiding power would ultimately turn the adversaries' aspirations into ashes,” the statement emphasized.

It also underscored the Operations True Promise of I and II as a definitive and historic reaction to the malevolence of the Zionist regime, attributing their success to the efforts of martyr Tehrani Moghaddam and his dedicated companions. “These operations were a significant and historic response from Iran to the transgressions and offenses of the Zionist regime, furthering the cause of Quds liberation.”

Major General Hasan Tehrani Moghaddam, a member of the IRGC since its establishment in 1979 and known as the ‘father of Iran’s missile program’, played a vital role in advancing the nation's defense capabilities. During the Iran-Iraq war, he served as the first commander of the artillery division within the Guards, establishing the artillery unit. 

Following the war, Tehrani Moghadam transitioned to the missile unit of the IRGC, where he assumed leadership and dedicated his efforts to research and development in missile technology until his martyrdom. 

Tehrani Moghaddam was tragically martyred in an explosion in November 2011 west of Tehran. The blast came during a missile test at a base in Bid Ganeh. At least 16 others were killed in the blast.

Despite the loss of Tehrani Moghaddam who was the driving force behind Iran's missile program, the nation's ambitions in this field have not diminished. Since his martyrdom, Iran has continued to advance its missile technology, achieving significant milestones with the development of hypersonic missiles. This period has also seen the emergence of a burgeoning space program, demonstrating Iran's unwavering commitment to expanding its technological capabilities.

**CAPTION: The late Major General Hassan Tehrani Moghaddam kicked off and led Iran’s missile program until his martyrdom in 2011