TEHRAN -- The ground force of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) on Saturday started the main stage of the Great Prophet 19 drill in the western province of Kermanshah.
The stage involved specialized units from the IRGC ground forces, focusing on rapid reaction operations.
A key component of the war game is the rapid transfer of forces and equipment to the exercise area.
The force has deployed various units, including the Mirza Kuchak Khan special forces brigade from the northern Gilan province to the drill zone.
Commander of Najaf Ashraf West Headquarters Muhammad Nazar Azimi stated that the first phase of the drill commenced in the Oramanat region of Kermanshah.
The purpose of the exercise, he said, is to enhance defense capabilities of the operational units. 
He said new weapons and equipment would be used in the drill, adding the capabilities of the local population and the Basij (volunteer) forces would also be tested.
Emphasizing the importance of conducting this exercise in the border areas, the IRGC commander stated that Kermanshah saw many acts of bravery during the 1980s war.
The drill, he said, is being held to strengthen the capabilities of the armed forces and enhance the security of the region.