Starting from February 28, 2026, Iran is in a state of war with the US-Israel alliance.
In fact, Iran, as a country of strategic importance in the Middle East, has been a focal point in the region with its military forces and technological arsenal. Despite strained relations with neighboring states and international sanctions, the Iranian Armed Forces possess significant power in land, air, and sea domains. The country's arsenal includes missile systems of various ranges, unmanned aerial vehicles, and armored vehicles.
Modern.az reports, citing foreign sources, that Iran's military strategy is primarily focused on asymmetric warfare methods and its missile program. Unmanned aerial vehicles and missile technologies play a significant role for regional states, although its air and naval forces are technologically weaker compared to other regional powers.
The Iranian Armed Forces consist of two major components: the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Artesh) and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (SEPAH). Artesh encompasses traditional land, air, and naval forces, while SEPAH carries out parallel and strategic functions, responsible for operations both within the country and in the region.
According to 2026 reports, Iran's active military personnel number approximately 610,000. Of these, 350,000 serve in the army, and 190,000 serve within SEPAH. An additional 50,000 personnel are present in the naval and air forces. The reserve force is approximately 350,000 personnel. When SEPAH and other military units are added, Iran's potential mobilization capability could exceed 1,000,000 personnel.
Ground Forces and Equipment
Iran's ground forces possess approximately 1,500 battle tanks, primarily T-72 and domestically produced "Zulfiqar" type tanks. The ground forces are equipped with hundreds of infantry fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers. Artillery and multiple rocket launcher systems strengthen the ground troops, making them effective in field operations. Approximately 7,000 artillery systems are available.
Air Force
The Iranian Air Force operates with approximately 250 operational combat aircraft. Most aircraft consist of older and modernized models. In terms of modern combat technologies, the flight capability of F-14 and F-4 aircraft is limited.
Missiles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Iran's missile arsenal is one of the most extensive and diverse in the region. The country's missiles are short, medium, and long-range, with some systems capable of reaching distances of 2,000-2,500 km. This arsenal includes Shahab, Ghadr, Sejjil, and other systems.
In the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Iran is known for its Shahed and Mohajer series. These drones are used for both reconnaissance and attack missions and play a significant role in regional conflicts.
Naval Forces
The Iranian navy is primarily equipped with small vessels, patrol boats, and coastal defense assets. The navy has approximately 90 vessels, including 6 submarines. Iran's Naval Forces are active in strategic waterways.
Military Budget and Resources
In 2025-2026, Iran's military budget is approximately 7.9 billion US dollars. This figure indicates that Iran prioritizes military power despite its economic problems and limitations arising from international sanctions. The budget constitutes approximately 12-20% of total government expenditures.
Global Ranking and Actual Role
Iran's military strength is ranked among the top 15-20 armies globally in "Global Firepower" and other international indices. Iran's power, particularly with its missile program and unmanned aerial vehicles, has a significant impact in the region. The technological weakness of its conventional air and naval forces creates challenges in confrontations with major powers, but provides an advantage in asymmetric warfare domains.
Historical Context
In the 20th century, the Iranian army was primarily defensive in nature. During the First and Second World Wars, the country remained under foreign influence, and military development was limited. Following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, ideological changes occurred in the army, and SEPAH was formed. The Iran-Iraq War in 1980-1988 increased Iran's military experience, particularly in the use of aviation and naval forces.
Currently, Iran's military strength:
Active military personnel: 610,000
Reserve force: 350,000
Tanks: 1,500+
Combat aircraft: 250
Missile arsenal: thousands, 2,000+ km range systems
UAV systems: Shahed and Mohajer series
Navy: 90 vessels and small surface units
Military budget: 7.9 billion US dollars
