Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has introduced a new level of military sophistication by deploying missiles equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) during naval exercises in the Gulf, according to state media reports on Monday. The IRGC’s naval forces reportedly utilized “Ghaem and Almas missiles, equipped with artificial intelligence,” launched from Mohajer-6 and Ababil-5 drones, as stated by the IRNA state news agency.
These missiles, developed within Iran, are known for their precision guidance capabilities and were said to have “successfully destroyed hypothetical enemy targets” during the military maneuvers.
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The drills, which began on Friday, took place in the southwest of Iran, specifically in the Bushehr and Khuzestan provinces and the surrounding Gulf waters. These areas are crucial as they host significant oil, petrochemical, and nuclear installations, including Iran’s only nuclear power plant in Bushehr.
IRGC naval commander Alireza Tangsiri emphasized the strategic importance of these “sensitive positions” during an interview with IRNA, explaining that the exercises were designed to simulate the defense of these key facilities. Tangsiri also revealed that Iran is currently producing cruise missiles with ranges extending beyond 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), which incorporate AI technology.
This demonstration of advanced weaponry comes at a time when Iran has been actively pursuing technological advancements in response to its isolation from Western military technology, particularly since the 1979 Islamic Revolution when ties with the United States, its former arms supplier, were severed.
The timing of these military tests is noteworthy as they follow shortly after the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump, who, in his previous term, adopted a “maximum pressure” policy against Iran. On Thursday, Trump expressed a preference for diplomatic solutions over military action, mentioning hopes for a “deal” with Tehran, which remains a declared adversary to both the U.S. and its ally, Israel.
This move by Iran to integrate AI into its missile systems could signify a new phase in its military strategy, potentially escalating tensions in an already volatile region.
Key Points
- AI-Enhanced Missiles: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards deployed Ghaem and Almas missiles equipped with artificial intelligence during military drills in the Gulf.
- Drone Utilization: These missiles were launched from advanced Mohajer-6 and Ababil-5 drones.
- Successful Simulation: The missiles reportedly “successfully destroyed hypothetical enemy targets” in the exercises.
- Strategic Locations: The drills took place in Bushehr and Khuzestan provinces, home to significant oil, petrochemical, and nuclear facilities, including Iran’s nuclear power plant.
- Long-Range Missiles: Iran is developing cruise missiles with ranges over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), also incorporating AI technology.
- Leadership Push for AI: The deployment follows remarks by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei encouraging mastery of artificial intelligence.
- Post-Revolution Defense Development: Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran has independently developed sophisticated missiles and drones.
- Political Context: The military exercises occur post-inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump, amid his previous “maximum pressure” policy on Iran, with recent comments suggesting a preference for diplomacy over military action.
