Iran Unveils New Underground Naval Base, Showcases Advanced Cruise Missiles
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Navy has unveiled a new underground naval base, state television reported on Saturday.
The announcement comes just two weeks after a similar underground facility was revealed, signaling Iran’s expanding military capabilities.
Missile Arsenal and Advanced Warfare Capabilities
According to state television, the underground facility houses hundreds of cruise missiles, specifically designed to counter enemy electronic warfare systems.
"These missiles can be activated within a very short time and are capable of striking targets deep underwater," the report stated.
Footage aired by Iranian media showed launch pads and missile storage tunnels at an undisclosed location in southern Iran. The facility was inspected by:
Major General Hossein Salami, Commander of the Revolutionary Guards
Brigadier General Alireza Tangsiri, Naval Commander of the Guards
The footage also showcased a new cruise missile, the Ghadr-380, which Tangsiri claimed has a 1,000-kilometer range and is equipped with anti-jamming technology.
Strategic Context and Recent Military Developments
This unveiling follows Iran’s January 18 revelation of an underground naval ship storage site, which houses naval assault vessels and missile launchers. The facility, located 500 meters underground, is positioned near the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor through which one-fifth of the world’s oil production flows.
Iran’s Expanding Military Exercises
Iran has stepped up its military preparedness in recent weeks. Last month, the country launched large-scale military exercises, particularly around nuclear facilities. These exercises, codenamed “Eqtedar”, are set to continue until mid-March, further demonstrating Iran’s commitment to strengthening its defense infrastructure.
The unveiling of these underground facilities highlights Iran’s strategic focus on military deterrence, particularly in response to regional tensions and international pressures.
01/02/2025