Iran Unveils Underground Air Force Base Codenamed ‘Eagle 44’
Iran has revealed an underground air force base called "Eagle 44" Tuesday saying it is the first of its kind large enough to house fighter jets.
Iran has revealed an underground air force base called "Eagle 44" Tuesday saying it is the first of its kind large enough to house fighter jets.
IRNA news agency reported that the base is capable of storing and operating fighter jets and drones.
The base was visited by a number of high-ranking Iranian military officials ahead of its official unveiling by Iran's state media outlets.
However, the report by IRNA did not elaborate on the location of the base.
It added that it is one of the country's most important air force bases, built deep underground, housing fighters equipped with long-range cruise missiles.
Iran does not have a viable modern air force due to long-running sanctions and arms embargoes. It mostly relies on missiles and drones.
Tasnim new agency, which is affiliated with the Revolutionary Guard, said the tactical airbase can accommodate and prepare various aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, and unmanned aerial vehicles, for missions.
“These bases that have been constructed in proportion to the needs and with high safety factor are located under a mountainous areas, so that they can be used for surprise aerial operations,” Tasnim reported.
"Any attack on Iran from our enemies, including Israel, will see a response from our many air force bases including Eagle 44," Iran's armed forces' Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri told state TV.
Lately, there has been more talk of an Israeli air attack on Iran to contain its military program. The United States and Israel held large drills in the end of January, possibly in preparation with such a scenario.
