IRAN: Recent satellite images analyzed by American researchers and confirmed by senior Iranian officials show that Iran is significantly expanding its ballistic missile facilities. The expansion includes over 30 new buildings at the Modarres military base and the Khojir missile production complex near Tehran, observed in images from March and April.

Images from Planet Labs reveal structures surrounded by large dirt berms, common in missile production to contain explosions. Jeffrey Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies noted that construction at Khojir began in August last year, while Modarres' expansion started in October.

This expansion follows an October 2022 agreement where Iran agreed to supply missiles to Russia for its war against Ukraine. Sources told Reuters that Iran has provided Russia with around 400 surface-to-surface ballistic missiles, including those from the Fateh-110 family, such as the Zolfaghar.

The new buildings will also double Iran's drone production. These drones and missile components will be sold to Russia and provided to groups like the Houthis and Hezbollah. One Iranian official highlighted the strategic importance of these expansions, indicating plans to increase drone manufacturing significantly.

Strategic Concerns for the US and Israel:The increase in missile and drone production raises significant concerns for the United States and Israel. Iranian drones have been aiding Russia's assault on Ukrainian cities, and Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah continue to threaten Israel. The US has implemented sanctions to constrain Iran's missile and drone production and exports. A US National Security Council spokesperson acknowledged efforts to limit Iranian production and exports but did not confirm the researchers' findings.

Historical Context and Future Implications: The Shahid Modarres and Khojir complexes, overseen by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), have been key to Iran's missile and space programs. In 2011, a massive explosion at Shahid Modarres killed 17 IRGC officers, including Gen. Hassan Moqaddam, known as the "architect" of Iran's ballistic missile program. Construction at Shahid Modarres resumed after the explosion and accelerated last year, according to an Iranian official.

The international community remains watchful as Iran enhances its military capabilities. The expansion of missile and drone production at these sites underscores the potential for increased regional instability. As Iran's capabilities grow, the geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East and beyond may face significant challenges.

Get Satellite Images of Your Home from Space with Just a Few Clicks!

Japan Successfully Launches Advanced Earth Observation Satellite on New H3 Rocket

MoD Partners with SpacePixxel to Develop Advanced Miniaturized Satellites