Iran deploys powerful radar to monitor Russian activities
Iran has launched the Nazir radar, as reported by the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. This development allows Tehran to monitor Russia's activities with a range of up to 500 miles.
Iran has enhanced its air defense by deploying the Nazir radar in the Gilan province near the Caspian Sea. According to Defense Express, construction of the radar began in 2022, with the main structure completed by the end of 2023. However, it is expected to be fully operational by early 2025. The Nazir radar is a sophisticated complex of antennas and transmission-reception systems.
New capabilities of the Nazir radar
The Nazir radar includes more than just antennas. As explained by Defense Express, it is essentially a complex of reception and transmission equipment supported by power systems. The Nazir radar can detect objects up to 500 miles away and at altitudes up to 19 miles. It can track low-visibility objects such as cruise missiles and monitor ballistic missile launches.
The chosen location for the Nazir radar is strategic. It was constructed on Mount Sumam, the highest point in the region, ensuring a broad range of coverage. This means Iran can now observe areas that were previously outside the reach of their air defense systems, including parts of Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, and Central Asian countries.
Strategic significance for Iran
The location of the Nazir radar holds strategic importance, particularly in addressing potential threats from the north. Iranian sources suggest that some attacks from Israel have been launched from the north, utilizing Azerbaijan's airspace. The new radar will allow Iran to detect such threats earlier.
With its position at an altitude of 12,208 feet, the Nazir radar can detect targets 174 miles away if they are at an altitude of 164 feet. The 500-mile range is achievable for objects at an altitude of 11 miles, while aircraft flying at an altitude of 3 miles can be detected from a distance of 311 miles.
