TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran has displayed a new, all-Iranian made air defense system that is reportedly an upgrade to an earlier Russian-made mobile model.
The system was on show today during a military parade in Tehran commemorating the start of the Iraq- Iran war 32 years ago.
The semi-official Fars news agency says the Raad, or Thunder, is more advanced than its Russian predecessor and is designed to confront fighter jets, cruise missiles, smart bombs, helicopters and drones.
The agency says Raad carries missiles with a range of 30 miles, capable of hitting targets at 75,000 feet.
Iran’s military leaders have said they believe future wars will be air- and sea-based and Tehran has sought to upgrade its air defense systems and naval power in anticipation of such a possibility.
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