Iran’s IRGC Claims Apply of Decade-Old Missiles in Ongoing Operations
Tehran – The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has revealed that a significant portion of the missiles employed in recent attacks against US and Israeli targets during “Operation True Promise 4” were produced approximately ten years ago, reserving more advanced weaponry for potential escalation. This disclosure comes as the conflict enters its third week, according to statements made by IRGC officials.
Missile Deployment and Reserve Capabilities
Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeini, an IRGC spokesperson, stated in an interview with IRIB News Network that around 700 missiles and 3,600 drones have been launched since the start of operations on February 28 1. He emphasized that the currently deployed missiles “originated a decade ago,” indicating a strategic reserve of more modern weaponry remains available. “Many of the missiles we have produced from the 12 Day War to the Ramadan War have not yet been deployed,” Naeini said, as reported by Press TV 1.
Increased Offensive Capabilities and Naval Assertions
The IRGC spokesperson highlighted a significant increase in Iran’s offensive capabilities since previous conflicts, suggesting a substantial modernization of its military arsenal. He asserted that adversaries remain largely unaware of the full extent of these advancements.
In a direct challenge to Washington, General Naeini claimed the US Navy lacks the “courage” to approach the Persian Gulf, asserting Iran’s complete control over the Strait of Hormuz 1. He issued a challenge, stating, “If the enemy claims to have destroyed our navy, let them dare to bring their warships to the Persian Gulf.”
Impact on US Naval Presence
According to Naeini, American naval vessels were forced to maintain a distance of 300 to 400 miles from the tip of the Gulf of Oman following cruise missile attacks by the IRGC Navy and Ground Forces 1. He alleges these ships likely sustained significant damage and have been withdrawn for repairs, effectively removing them from operational missions. “After cruise missile attacks from the IRGC Navy and then the Islamic Republic of Iran Army, they immediately withdrew from the area, most likely sustained heavy damage and departed for repairs. They have been stripped of their operational mission,” Naeini stated.
Operation True Promise 4
The IRGC announced the “successful execution of the 48th wave of its ongoing retaliatory Operation True Promise 4 against Zionist and American targets” on Saturday 2, 3. This offensive was reportedly coordinated with the Lebanese resistance group, Hezbollah 1, 3. Targets included locations in northern Israel, such as Galilee, the Golan and Haifa, as well as several American bases in the region 1.
The 48th wave reportedly involved a combination of solid-fuel Kheibar Shekan missiles, liquid-fuel Qadr missiles, and attack drones 1, 3.