Iran Orders Drone Base Expansion as Tensions Grow With US

By Amira El-Fekki‎

Iran's armed forces have developed a range of drone systems and plan to set up new drone bases to counter threats to the Islamic Republic's sovereignty, Iranian media reported.

Why It Matters

Iran is highlighting its military capabilities and readiness at a time of a standoff over its nuclear program with the United States as well as in the face of other potential threats to its security.

Tensions between Iran and the U.S. have escalated, particularly following the reimposition of the "maximum pressure" policy. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened military action to deter Tehran from developing nuclear weapons, which Tehran denies seeking.

Iran and the United States are due to hold landmark talks at the weekend, but the risk of confrontation remains.

What To Know

Iran's Army Ground Force Commander said a range of drone systems and micro-aircraft had been developed, with extensive drone bases established and upgraded across the country, especially along border regions, Iranian media reported.

Iran plans to construct more drone bases across the country, though specific locations were not disclosed, according to Commander of Iran Army Ground Force Brigadier General Kiumars Heidari, Tasnim news agency said.

The expansion was also described as part of plans to secure eastern borders with Pakistan and Afghanistan from smuggling and insurgents with a network of surveillance drones and sensors.

Iran has rapidly advanced its drone capabilities, including surveillance and attack systems and it has become a major exporter — including to Russia, which has used Iranian drones in its war against Ukraine.

In January, the Iranian army acquired 1,000 drones with a reported range of more than 1,200 miles and high destructive capacity.

Iran has said it is committed to maintaining constant military readiness, as directed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, particularly in the face of repeated U.S. threats of attack. On Wednesday, Trump suggested Israel could lead a potential military strike against Iran if Tehran doesn't abandon its nuclear weapons program, The Associated Press reported.

Iran has also bolstered its defense capabilities with the expansion of its Ghadir radar network designed to detect incoming aircraft, missiles, and drones, strengthening its air defenses against potential strikes from the U.S. and Israel. In February, Iran unveiled its first drone-carrier warship, marking a significant expansion of its naval capabilities.

What People Are Saying

Commander of Iran Army Ground Force Brigadier General Kiumars Heidari, according to Tehran Times: "Drones are among the most unique and impactful weapons in future potential battles. The Army Ground Forces have successfully developed various drone systems and micro-aircraft, now integral to the Armed Forces' structure under the Ministry of Defense.

Extensive drone bases have been established and upgraded nationwide, particularly along border regions. These facilities support drones capable of precisely neutralizing threats to Iran's sovereignty."

What Happens Next

As tensions rise between the U.S. and Iran, risks grow of a military escalation between the two countries unless they can reach a deal over Iran's nuclear program.