Iran Unveils New Underground Missile Base

Above: Members of the Basij paramilitary force under the command of the IIRGC carry scale model missiles in a military rally in downtown Tehran, Iran, on Jan. 10, 2025.  Image copyright: Morteza Nikoubazl/Contributor/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The Facts

  • Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Saturday unveiled its third underground missile facility, housing advanced cruise missiles designed to target destroyers in "strategic southern waters."

  • According to an Iranian report, the new facility features Ghadr 380 cruise missiles with a range exceeding 1K kilometers, equipped with anti-jamming systems and capable of deployment within five minutes of activation.

  • IRGC Chief Commander Major General Hossein Salami inspected the combat readiness of missile units at the facility — the latest addition to Iran's network of subterranean military installations.


The Spin

Pro-Iran narrative

The underground missile bases are a crucial deterrent against potential aggressors, demonstrating Iran's defensive capabilities and technological self-sufficiency. Their strategic positioning and advanced features ensure Iran's ability to protect its territorial waters and national interests. The rapid succession of base unveilings sends a clear message about Iran's readiness to counter any threats.


Anti-Iran narrative

The expansion of Iran's missile program poses a significant security concern for regional stability and international maritime operations. The development of long-range missiles with advanced capabilities threatens freedom of navigation in critical waterways and potentially destabilizes the balance of power in the Middle East. These military advancements could escalate tensions and complicate diplomatic efforts in the region.



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