Satellite Imagery: Iran Strengthening Underground Nuclear Facilities

Jakarta –

Iran is reportedly strengthening an underground complex near one of its nuclear facilities. This information was revealed from analysis of the latest satellite imagery showing intensive construction activity on Mount Kolang Gaz La, also known as Pickaxe Mountain.

The satellite images were analyzed by the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS). In the picture dated February 10, new concrete can be seen being poured at one of the tunnel entrances, complete with a boom pump for distributing the concrete.

At the entrance of another tunnel, the earth and rocks appeared to be flattened. In addition, new structures reinforced with concrete have appeared around the area. Analysts assess that this strengthening is aimed at protecting facilities from potential air attacks.

ISIS said ongoing construction activities indicate the facility may not yet be ready for use. However, the size of the complex and the natural protection of the mountain raise concerns that additional sensitive activities are planned.

“The size of the facility and the protection this high mountain provides raises concerns about whether other sensitive activities are planned, such as uranium enrichment,” ISIS wrote in its report, quoted by the BBC.

The Pickaxe Mountain complex is about two kilometers from the Natanz nuclear facility which was the target of an attack by the United States and Israel in June 2025. United States President Donald Trump claimed the attack had crippled Iran’s uranium enrichment capacity, although he said Tehran might consider building a new site.

Repair activity was also observed at the Isfahan nuclear complex. All tunnel entrances at that location appear to be filled with earth, which is thought to reduce the impact of air strikes and also complicate ground invasion efforts.

Recent satellite imagery showing intensive construction activity at Pickaxe Mountain. Photo: Vantor

Director of the Middle East Studies Program at George Washington University, Sina Azodi, assessed Iran’s steps as reflecting anticipation of possible further attacks.

“Iran’s nuclear program has not been destroyed. Once a country has the knowledge, capacity and technology, everything can always be rebuilt,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, said that the opportunity to reach a new nuclear agreement between Iran and the United States is still open, but the time is very limited.

(rns/rns)