Iran unveils 10 overhauled helicopters, marks milestone in a ceremony
Tehran ceremony showcases military self-reliance as Army Aviation integrates refurbished fleet, celebrates production of 1,000th domestic aircraft component
TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran’s Army Aviation unit inducted 10 overhauled helicopters into operational service and marked the production of its 1,000th indigenized aircraft part in a ceremony held Monday at the Fourth Combat Aviation Base in Esfahan.
Senior military officials, including Army Ground Force Commander Brigadier General Kioumars Heidari and Army Aviation Commander Brigadier General Seyyed Ghasem Khamoushi, attended the event.
The event highlighted Iran’s continued push toward defense self-sufficiency despite years of international sanctions, reported Tehran Times.
The newly refurbished helicopters—comprising Cobra attack helicopters, Chinook heavy-lift transports, and other tactical aircraft—were restored using domestically manufactured components.
Officials said the aircraft are now equipped with enhanced operational capabilities, including night-vision systems.
“When helicopters are deployed in support of ground operations, they significantly boost troop morale and combat power,” said Gen. Heidari.
He praised Army Aviation as one of the most advanced units in West Asia and called the day “historic” for Iran’s military.
The ceremony also celebrated the unveiling of the 1,000th indigenized aircraft part, developed through collaboration between Iran’s Ministry of Defense, local industries, and knowledge-based firms.
The parts, which span critical systems including rotor assemblies and avionics, were reported to meet international standards.
Gen. Heidari linked the accomplishment to the strategic vision of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. “Our path to self-reliance follows the Leader’s directive and honors the revolution’s goals,” he said.
Gen. Khamoushi underscored the broader objective behind the upgrades: “This milestone reflects the Armed Forces’ commitment to national defense and our Leader’s strategic directives.”
He also confirmed that training programs are ongoing to ensure pilots and technicians are prepared to operate and maintain the modernized fleet.
The ceremony concluded with a symbolic flyover by a Chinook helicopter bearing the Iranian flag, circling the skies over Esfahan.
Despite enduring decades of sanctions, Iran has significantly advanced its defense industry, developing indigenous missiles, UAVs, fighter jets, and naval systems.
The Army Aviation unit continues to sustain and modernize its fleet to support both military and civilian missions, with fortified mountain hangars and a growing domestic supply chain playing key roles in its readiness.
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