Iran has revealed an underground missile storage facility and announced the development of “new special missiles,” according to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)-affiliated Tasnim News. The announcement comes amid rising regional tensions, with Iran seeking to reinforce its military presence despite recent conflicts involving its allies.
Iran’s Underground Missile Base: A ‘Dormant Volcano’
Video footage aired on Iranian state television on Friday showed IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami and Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh inspecting the underground missile base. Hajizadeh referred to the facility as a “dormant volcano,” suggesting it holds significant strategic importance.
According to reports from Iran’s semi-official Mehr News Agency, this underground base was actively used in Iran’s missile operations against Israel in October and April. The revelation signals Iran’s growing emphasis on underground military infrastructure to shield its missile capabilities from aerial strikes and intelligence surveillance.
Iran’s ‘New Special Missiles’ and Expanding Military Drills
At an event in Abadan on Friday, General Salami announced that Iran’s Aerospace Force is developing a new category of missiles. While details remain scarce, the phrase “new special missiles” implies advancements in missile technology that could enhance Iran’s strategic deterrence.
The unveiling of these missile projects coincides with Iran’s plans to hold extensive military drills. On Monday, General Ali Mohammad Naeini disclosed that upcoming war games this month will feature “missile and drone cities.” These include an underground storage site for missiles and a separate facility for naval vessels in southern Iran.
Additionally, on Friday, Iran’s Basij (volunteer) forces conducted a large-scale exercise involving 110,000 members in Tehran. This follows a series of military maneuvers by Iranian forces in recent days, emphasizing Iran’s efforts to showcase its military strength.
Regional Implications: Iran’s Show of Strength
Iran’s latest military activities come as it faces challenges across the region. Iranian-backed groups in Lebanon, Gaza, and Yemen have been targeted by Israeli strikes, and Iran’s long-time ally, Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, has lost power. Despite these setbacks, Tehran is determined to demonstrate that its regional influence remains intact.
“Our deterrence has not been designed based on the actions of any other country,” Salami stated on Friday, reaffirming Iran’s stance that its military development is independent of external pressures.
Tensions with Israel and the U.S.
Tensions between Iran and Israel remain high. In October, Israel targeted Iranian missile manufacturing sites and air defense systems inside Iran in response to Iranian strikes. Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the Israeli attacks, calling them a “clear violation” of international law and asserting Iran’s right to self-defense.
Meanwhile, the U.S. is preparing for a transition of power as President-elect Donald Trump is set to be sworn in on January 20.
Trump previously imposed a “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran during his first term, and his return to office raises questions about how U.S.-Iran relations will evolve. U.S. officials have also expressed optimism about brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas before Trump’s inauguration.
Conclusion
Iran’s latest military disclosures highlight its strategic efforts to bolster missile capabilities and reinforce its regional position. With underground missile bases, new weapons, and large-scale drills, Iran is sending a message that it remains a formidable player in the Middle East. However, with ongoing conflicts and shifting U.S. policies, the geopolitical landscape remains uncertain.
