TEHRAN – At a ceremony at the 4th Fighter Air Base in Esfahan on Monday, the Iranian Army (Artesh) air units have integrated 10 renovated helicopters into their fleet, celebrating the production of the 1000th indigenous aircraft parts.
The event was attended by senior military leaders, including Army Ground Forces Commander Brigadier General Kiumars Haidari and Army Air Commander Brigadier General Seyed Gasem Hamidi, to highlight Iran’s progress in achieving military self-sufficiency amid ongoing sanctions.
New operational helicopters – a mix of Cobra attack helicopters, Chinook heavy lift transport and tactical transport helicopters have been renovated using domestically produced parts.
General Haidari emphasized strategic values. “Helicopters support ground operations and increase military morale and combat effectiveness.”
He added that Army Aviation has become “one of the elite units of West Asia,” and that the night vision system has strengthened its operational reach.
At the same time, the unit announced the portion of the 1000th Indigenous aircraft. This is a milestone achieved through collaborations with knowledge-based companies, the Ministry of Defense and local industries.
Parts that meet global standards cover critical systems, from rotor assembly to avionics.
General Haidari directly linked her achievements to the vision of the leader of the Islamic Revolution, and Ayatollahs made Ali Khamenei ayei.
He praised the “glowing history” of Army aviation in national defense and civil service, and declared the day “historic.”
General Kamoushi emphasized a broader resolve: “This reflects the military’s determined will to defend Iran and implement national goals, as commanded by the leaders of the Islamic Revolution.”
He saw ongoing training for pilots and technicians to maximize new features.
The ceremony concluded with a Chinook helicopter circling Esfahan with an Iranian flag on it.
Iranian military has strengthened its capabilities despite decades of sanctions that have constrained the economy.
The country has developed advanced defense systems that include missiles, UAVs, fighter jets and naval assets.
Iran’s air forces are ensuring operational readiness by maintaining and strengthening their fleet through domestic parts production and strengthening mountainous areas.
Army air units also maintain and upgrade helicopter fleets to assist in national defense and public missions.