New Delhi: Iranian Revolutionary Guards announced on Friday that its navy has been equipped with new cruise missiles featuring highly explosive warheads that are undetectable, according to state media reports. This announcement by Irans most powerful security organization comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, following Irans vow to avenge the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31, which Iran has blamed on Israel.Irans military chief issues stark warningMajor-General Hossein Salami, the Guards top commander, emphasized the importance of military strength in todays world, stating that in todays world, you either have to be powerful to survive or surrender. Theres no middle ground. The Guards navy has added a large number of cruise missiles to its fleet, boasting capabilities of highly explosive warheads that are undetectable and can cause extensive damage and sink their targets.In addition to the new missiles, the Guards Navy has also acquired various types of long and medium-range missile systems, reconnaissance drones, and naval radars, which are among the most up-to-date anti-surface and sub-surface weapons in the Guards Navy. State television showcased several of these weapons on Friday, although only 210 of the 2,654 systems were displayed due to security reasons.Irans missile programIran has developed one of the most extensive missile programs in the Middle East, viewing its arsenal as a vital component of its national defense strategy, serving as both a deterrent and a retaliatory force against potential aggressors, particularly the United States and Israel, in the event of a military conflict.The scope of Irans missile capabilities is underscored by a report from the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence, which confirms that the country boasts the largest inventory of ballistic missiles in the region, surpassing its neighbors and solidifying its position as a dominant military power in the Middle East.
