Why it matters:
Commander of Iranian Navy talks in the press conferences about sending Iranian scientists to the Antarctica. The mission comes after the Iranian navy fleet's round-the-Eath journey.
The big picture:
Iran seeks to project naval power beyond its shores, combining security operations with defense diplomacy. The Navy aims to position itself as a regional model for both security and multilateral cooperation, despite concerns from rivals about its expanding oceanic presence.
What he's saying:
Rear Admiral Shahram Irani stressed that international presence requires advanced knowledge, modern equipment, and awareness of oceanic conditions.
Admiral Irani announced: "Antarctica today is a place for scientists, and our scientists are preparing themselves for a presence in this area.”
He highlighted Iran’s commitment to maritime security, the strategic development of the Makran coast, and support for Iranian scientists in oceanic research.
Key points:
- Over 103 naval groups have been dispatched to the high seas
- Currently, two naval groups are participating in international events in East and Southern Africa
- Hundreds of Iranian vessels are escorting commercial shipments across oceanic waters under full security
- New warships will soon join the fleet, tasked with safeguarding economic security and shipping routes in oceanic regions
- Iran is engaging in joint exercises with regional and extra-regional countries
Go deeper:
Iran Navy Commander Unveils New Naval Upgrades and Antarctic Plans
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi