Iran has revealed new defense weapons amidst rising tensions in the region. The unveiling ceremony showcased the Arman anti-ballistic missile system and the Azarakhsh low-altitude air defense system, both reportedly made locally.
Tensions have escalated, notably with Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militants launching attacks on vessels linked to the U.S., UK, and Israel in the Red Sea. This action was seen as a display of solidarity with the Gaza Strip, which has been under Israeli military assault since Hamas's attacks on southern Israel on October 7.
In response to the Houthi attacks, the U.S. targeted sites within Yemen and facilities of Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria. Consequently, U.S. military bases in Syria and Iraq were attacked, and Israel also struck Iranian targets in Syria.
The unveiling ceremony, attended by Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, introduced the two vehicle-mounted systems. According to reports, these new additions will significantly enhance Iran's air defense capability.
The Arman missile system is said to be capable of simultaneously engaging six targets at distances ranging from 120 to 180 km, while the Azarakhsh system can detect and destroy targets up to 50 km away with four ready-to-fire missiles.
In June, Iran introduced what officials described as its first domestically produced hypersonic ballistic missile, named Fattah, boasting a range of 1,400 km.
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