In framework of large military exercise held last month, Iran reveals Wednesday for first time Saegheh (lightning in Persian) – first Iranian-made warplane. Laser-guided, Iranian-made Raad missiles also tested during exercise

Iran declared Wednesday that an Iranian-made warplane, called Saegheh (lightning in Persian) has become operational after successfully finishing a test flight during the massive military exercise held in the northwestern part of the country.

Iranian news agency, Fars, reported that the one-seater jet successfully completed Wednesday an operational flight and launched an air-to-surface missile, officially adding it to the ranks of the Iranian air force.

It was also reported that Iranian-made laser-guided bombs, named Raad, were also tested during the exercise. According to the report, the bombs were launched at ground targets and hit them precisely. Furthermore, these missiles, it was reported, are in use by other armies in the world.

Spokesman of the exercise headquarters, Jawad Mahmadian, said, "The aircraft specializes in close-quarters air support and was planned and built by members of the Iranian air force."

He added that the plane is capable of carrying a range of missiles and bombs, and to launch them with the help of a sophisticated radar system. According to him, "after years of experiments, the operational capability of this warplane was proven Wednesday morning."

Iranian television broadcast images of the plane taking off, and reported that the plane "is similar to the American F-18, but stronger. It was planned and improved upon by Iranian experts." It was also reported that a number of trial flights were carried out in the last year and all of them finished successfully.

General Karim Gabami, an Iranian air force commander, said to Iranian national television that the purpose of these war games is "to display the force we are prepared to apply in order to defend our country until the last drop of blood."

Dudi Cohen
Published: 09.06.06, 12:12