TEHRAN – A high-ranking 
military official commended Iran’s Armed Forces for achieving the one of the most sophisticated defensive technology developed indigenously, particularly in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and artificial intelligence.
Deputy Chief of Science, Research, and Technology at the General Staff of the Armed Forces Brigadier General Mohammad Mehdinejad Nouri highlighted the “most sophisticated” technological advancements that had been developed within the forces, particularly in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and artificial intelligence.
The forces had made groundbreaking strides in defense technology, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence and unmanned systems, he added.
Brig. Gen. Mehdinejad Nouri noted that these breakthroughs were integral to enhancing the country’s national power, stressing the necessity of various technologies such as AI, quantum sciences, microelectronics, and digital systems in maintaining countrywide security.
He described artificial intelligence as a “critical” technology for the future of Iran’s defense strategy, noting that AI integrated multiple technological fields, which were crucial for responding to modern threats.
To further enhance Iran’s defense capabilities, the military official emphasized the importance of integrating a range of advanced technologies, including AI, digital systems, quantum technologies, and microelectronics, into a cohesive, intelligent network.
Looking ahead, Nouri asserted that Iran’s defense sector would continue to expand its partnerships with universities, research parks, and innovative companies.
“Our foremost priority in the Armed Forces is national security,” the top commander continued, stating, “While economic factors are important, the development of advanced defense technologies is our primary concern.”According to the official, Iran began its journey into unmanned aerial systems in 1985, and today, it boasted significant 
advancements, enabling it to export these technologies.
He pointed out that, over the past two years, the country’s defense sector had invested thousands of dollars into partnerships with academic and technological institutions to push forward a range of projects.
“These collaborations are key to fulfilling the technological needs of our Armed Forces and advancing our national defense strategies,” he added.
“We are actively tapping into creative ideas and innovative solutions to ensure that our military remains at the forefront of technological advancements,” he said.
These efforts, he remarked, were aligned with the broader vision of enhancing both the country’s national defense and its standing in the international arena.
Nouri further emphasized the growing importance of collaboration between the military and knowledge-based companies in enhancing the country’s technological capabilities.”Our cooperation with universities and knowledge-based companies has been crucial in advancing these technologies,” he explained, stressing that these attempts had already yielded result in the form of enhanced defense capabilities and exportable technologies.
Iranian military experts and engineers have in recent years made remarkable breakthroughs in manufacturing a broad range of indigenous equipment, making the armed forces self-sufficient.
Iranian officials have repeatedly stressed that the country will not hesitate to strengthen its military capacities, including its missile and drone power, which are entirely meant for defense, and that Iran’s defense capabilities will be never subject to negotiations.
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has repeatedly called for endeavors to maintain and enhance Iran’s defense power.