Amir Elhami: Iran's Air Defense Reaches 100% Self-Sufficiency

Brigadier General Alireza Elhami, Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Joint Air Defense Base and Commander of the Army Air Defense Force, detailed the latest status of the country's defense capabilities in an interview. Emphasizing that Iran's air defense is currently at the peak of its authority, he stated that all equipment, radar systems, command and control centers, and communication infrastructures used are products of the knowledge and efforts of Iranian scientists [1].

Full Self-Sufficiency in Equipment and Infrastructure According to Amir Elhami, the technical independence of Iran's air defense has now reached a stage where all complex parts and software are designed and produced domestically. He stated: "Everything we have today, from operational tactics to intelligence sectors, is completely Iranian." This senior military commander emphasized that these achievements were obtained through close cooperation between the armed forces and the country's scientific and research centers, making Iran independent of any foreign suppliers [2].

Rebuilding Defense Capability After Recent Conflicts A significant part of Amir Elhami's remarks was dedicated to the reconstruction of defense power following the events known as the "Third Imposed War." Referring to enemy attacks in recent months, he announced that all equipment hit or damaged during these conflicts was replaced as quickly as possible with more advanced indigenous systems [3]. He added that the secret to the dynamism of this force lies in its reliance on domestic power, as the indigenous nature of the equipment allows for rapid upgrades and updates in line with modern threats.

Hunting Advanced Drones and Countering Modern Threats The Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Air Defense Base also pointed to recent field successes, stating that defense forces have managed to down more than 160 of the enemy's most advanced drones, including MQ-9, Hermes, and Lucas models [1]. He emphasized that Iran's capability to intercept and destroy fifth-generation fighters and stealth drones represents a technological leap in indigenous radar and missile systems that have challenged the enemies' claimed aerial superiority.

The Role of Knowledge-Based Companies in Defense Authority In conclusion, Amir Elhami praised the vital role of knowledge-based companies and young elites. He noted that the mass production of defense systems is now managed entirely within the country, and Iran does not need any foreign party to update its defense network. This self-sufficiency has not only guaranteed sustainable security but has also significantly optimized defense costs [2][3].