Iran Air Force launches major maneuvers

The large-scale drills, codenamed Fada’eeyan-e Harim-e Velayat 5 (Devotees of the Velayat Sanctuary 5) began on Saturday to convey Iran’s message of security, stability, friendship and lasting peace to regional countries.

Various military aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, cargo planes, drones and reconnaissance aircraft, will be used in the two-day exercises.

The Air Force will conduct reconnaissance and data transfer missions, strike air and ground targets and practice civil defense tactics.

The operations will be carried out in three phases over an area of 400,000 square kilometers.

The maneuvers aim to improve commanders’ skills, upgrade systems and test different defense achievements in order to demonstrate the military prowess of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s military.

The Air Force holds annual drills to boost its capabilities to defend Iran’s airspace against any possible aggression.

Iran’s Air Force successfully wrapped up Fada’eeyan-e Harim-e Velayat 4 major war games in the country’s southern Persian Gulf waters in December 2013.

Different types of rockets, light and heavy smart guided-bombs, domestically-made military equipment and the latest aerial combat accomplishments underwent operational tests in the drill.

In recent years, Iran has made major breakthroughs in its defense sector and attained self-sufficiency in producing important military equipment and systems.

The Islamic Republic has conducted several military drills to enhance the defense capabilities of its armed forces and to test modern military tactics and equipment.

Iran says its military might poses no threat to other countries, stating that its defense doctrine is based on deterrence.