(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Recent satellite imagery reveals that Iran has begun deploying its short-range air defense system, named “Zoubin,” around its capital, Tehran, in preparation for potential aerial attacks from fighter jets and missiles from Israel.
The “Zoubin” system, also referred to as Iran’s version of the “Iron Dome,” is reported to be highly effective against drones and low-altitude cruise missiles, similar to the Israeli air defense system renowned for its success in intercepting Palestinian rocket attacks.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated, particularly following an Israeli airstrike on an Iranian embassy building in Damascus, Syria, which resulted in the deaths of three high-ranking officers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
In the wake of this airstrike, Iran’s top leaders vowed to retaliate against attacks by what they referred to as the Zionist regime.
Should Iran launch a significant retaliatory strike against Israel, as is expected in response to the airstrike on the embassy in Damascus, there is a possibility that Tel Aviv could retaliate with airstrikes against Iran, potentially sparking a regional conflict.
In anticipation of possible Israeli airstrikes, the Iranian military has mobilized its “Zoubin” air defense system to protect Tehran’s airspace.
Besides deploying the “Zoubin” system around Tehran to guard strategic locations, media reports also indicate that Iran has relocated its political leaders and military personnel to underground bunkers, such as the “Eagle 44” underground airbase.
The “Eagle 44” base is reported to be capable of withstanding ballistic missile attacks and high-powered bombs, making it a preferred shelter for Iran’s political and military leaders.
The construction of the “Eagle 44” underground military base reportedly took nine years, starting in 2014.
The “Zoubin” short-range air defense system boasts high tactical mobility and a 360-degree defense capability, capable of tracking 100 targets and simultaneously engaging eight with its vertically launched missiles.
Its performance and capabilities are said to rival those of Israel’s “Iron Dome” system, and its design shares similarities with the Israeli defense system.
The “Zoubin” system is designed for high mobility, mounted on a trailer to enable easy deployment across various locations.
Its radar can detect targets up to 30km away, with a firing range of 20km.
This newly introduced Iranian air defense system is specifically designed to counter threats such as cruise missiles, kamikaze drones, ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) drones, fighter jets, and long-range missiles and rockets.
Each “Zoubin” unit is equipped with a launcher capable of holding up to eight missiles.
Iran’s mastery of vertical-launch missile technology, as practiced in various systems including the long-range air defense system “Bavar 373,” signifies a significant advancement in its military capabilities.– DSA