The Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics of Iran

The Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics of Iran is responsible for planning, development, production, supply, and support of equipment and weaponry for the Iranian Armed Forces. This ministry also plays a key role in defense policymaking and strengthening the country’s military capabilities.

History of Establishment

The Iranian Ministry of Defense was established in 1974 (1353 in the Iranian calendar) through the merger of several military and industrial organizations. The objective of this integration was to enhance coordination in the production and supply of military equipment and to create unified management in the defense sector. After the Islamic Revolution in 1979 (1357), the ministry underwent extensive restructuring, focusing on military self-sufficiency and the development of domestic equipment.

Main Responsibilities of the Ministry of Defense

1. Designing, producing, and developing military equipment, including light and heavy weaponry.
2. Supporting the armed forces in logistics and equipment.
3. Planning and policymaking in defense and national security.
4. Managing defense industries and military technologies.

Subsidiaries of the Ministry of Defense

The Ministry of Defense of Iran oversees numerous subsidiaries and organizations operating in various fields. Some of the most significant ones include:

Defense Industries Organization (DIO):

• Responsible for producing various light and heavy weapons, armored equipment, and ammunition.
• Since 1981 (1360), this organization has become a cornerstone of Iran’s military sector.

Aerospace Industries Organization:

• Designs and manufactures missiles, drones, and aerospace equipment.
• Development of ballistic missiles such as Shahab, Sejjil, and others are among its achievements.

Iran Electronics Industries (IEI):

• Produces advanced electronic and telecommunication equipment.
• Engages in fields such as radar systems, electronic warfare, and command and control systems.

Marine Industries Organization:

• Designs and produces military vessels, submarines, and equipment related to the navy.
• Includes manufacturers of speedboats and light-to-medium-weight submarines.

Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industries (HESA):

• Produces various military and civilian aircraft, as well as drones.
• Notable products include the Kowsar fighter jet and Mohajer drones.

Aerospace Organization:

• Focuses on the development of short-, medium-, and long-range missile systems.
• Produces defense systems like Bavar-373 and offensive systems like Fateh-110.

Geographical Organization of the Armed Forces:

• Prepares geographical maps and geological data for military and civilian applications.

Objectives of the Ministry of Defense

• Strengthening the country’s defense and deterrence capabilities.
• Achieving complete self-sufficiency in the production of military equipment.
• Advancing cutting-edge technologies in the defense and military sectors.
• Exporting military products to allied and friendly nations to strengthen defense diplomacy.

The Iranian Ministry of Defense, by focusing on indigenous knowledge and advanced technologies, has become a key player in the military industry.