This article was originally published by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and is reprinted with permission.
The Iranian Air Force has launched a major exercise after the United States sent additional warships and forces to the Persian Gulf region.
More than 90 aircraft and combat drones have been deployed in the Gulf and other parts of Iran as part of the maneuvers, Iranian state media reported on July 24.
Army Commander In Chief Abdolrahim Mousavi said the exercise would “protect the independence, territorial integrity, and sacred ideals of the Islamic Revolution,” and promised that the air force would “resolutely defend the interests of the great Iranian nation.”
Among other things, the air force rehearsed attacks with kamikaze drones and fighter jets.
