Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday ordered the deployment of the MSSR-Mode S radar system at Abadan Airport, southwest in the country, using a video link.
Authorities at Iran’s Ministry of Transport said advanced radar systems will strengthen the area’s air traffic control network.
The CEO of Iranian Airport and Air Navigation Company said the monopulse secondary surveillance radar system was fully designed and built by domestic companies, news television reported.
Mohammad Amirani added that scientists from the Isfahan Institute of Technology in central Iran have contributed to the project, and that the system can monitor domestic and international flights within a 450-kilometer radius.
Amilani said the government has spent around 6.9 million euros ($7.84 million) on the project, cutting around 1 million euros from the import bill.
“Starting this radar is seen as a major step in the path to reaching self-sufficiency and progress in the country’s aviation industry,” he said.
Radar deployment is part of an increase in Iran’s own efforts to maintain and develop the aviation sector.
The effort has intensified in recent years amidst US sanctions restricting access to Iran’s foreign technology and investment.
Reports show that domestic businesses are repairing more than a dozen grounded planes due to sanctions.
The same report shows that Iranian companies are offering overhaul and inspection services to foreign airlines.
Iranian aviation authorities said they had acquired the skills necessary to manufacture spare parts for engines for Boeing and Airbus Jet aircraft in the second half of 2024.
MNA/