Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has significantly expanded its naval capabilities with the addition of long-range missiles, drones, and electronic warfare units, state media reported last Friday, August 9.

Iran’s IRGC Ups Ante with New “Untraceable” Missiles

According to the circulating report, this substantial military buildup comes at a time of heightened regional tensions following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

The IRGC, a powerful force with significant influence across the Middle East, has been at the forefront of Iran’s military operations.

The new weaponry, including anti-ship cruise missiles described as “untraceable” “enemy destroyers,” positions Iran for a more assertive role in the region’s maritime domain.

“In today’s world, you either have to be powerful to survive, or surrender. There’s no middle ground,” IRGC chief General Hossein Salami stated during the unveiling of the new weapons.

Iranian drones
IRGC Navy’s latest drones on display, August 9. (Screengrab/IRNA)

Salami also revealed the integration of various long and medium-range missile systems, surveillance drones, and naval radars into the fleet.

“If we cannot engage with the enemy in the depths of the sea and oceans at any desired point and stop the enemy from afar, we will naturally have problems at our national borders,” the general remarked.

The declaration underscores Iran’s determination to project power and deter potential adversaries.