Iran's military capabilities are a significant factor in regional and international security dynamics. Despite facing decades of sanctions and arms embargoes, Iran has developed a robust and largely self-sufficient defense industry, focusing on asymmetric warfare, missile technology, and drone capabilities.
Key Aspects of Iran's Military Power:
* Diverse Structure: The Iranian armed forces consist of two primary entities: the conventional Islamic Republic of Iran Army (Artesh) and the ideologically driven Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The IRGC, with its own ground, naval, and air forces, reports directly to the Supreme Leader and plays a crucial role in internal security and regional influence through its Quds Force and support for allied groups.
* Personnel Strength: Iran commands one of the largest active military forces in the Middle East, with approximately 610,000 active personnel and an additional 350,000 reserve and trained personnel, bringing total military manpower to about 960,000. Conscription is mandatory for men over 18.
* Asymmetric Warfare and Deterrence: Iran's military doctrine emphasizes asymmetric warfare, focusing on leveraging its strengths to counter technologically superior adversaries. This includes:
* Ballistic and Cruise Missiles: Iran has heavily invested in its indigenous missile program, developing a wide array of precision-guided short, medium, and long-range ballistic and cruise missiles. These are considered a cornerstone of its deterrence strategy.
* Drones: Iran has become a significant player in drone technology, producing various types of reconnaissance and attack drones. These have been deployed for both defensive purposes and to support regional allies.
* Naval Capabilities: With a focus on coastal defense and control of strategic waterways like the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's navy employs a mix of conventional vessels, fast attack craft, and submarines, often employing swarm tactics.