What Upgrades Has Iran's IRGC Made to Its Ballistic Missiles?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The IRGC has upgraded its ballistic missile capabilities.
- Launchers previously damaged in conflict have been refurbished.
- Newly enhanced missiles are ready for deployment.
- Recent conflicts have heightened military preparedness in the region.
- Iran's response to airstrikes included missile and drone attacks.
Tehran, Oct 19 (NationPress) The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) of Iran has revealed enhanced versions of two indigenous ballistic missiles, alongside refurbished launchers that were affected during the 12-day conflict with Israel, as per a report from state-operated IRIB TV.
The missile systems and launchers, part of the IRGC's Aerospace Forces, were showcased in a video report highlighting two of the IRGC's missile facilities, broadcasted by IRIB.
The upgraded ballistic missiles include the Emad and Qadr, with the latter reportedly outfitted with anti-electronic warfare technology, according to Xinhua news agency.
A senior commander from the IRGC's Aerospace Force, speaking anonymously for security reasons, stated that the missile capabilities of the force are “growing every hour” and that the newly enhanced missiles are mounted on launchers, prepared for deployment upon command.
On June 13, Israel executed significant surprise aerial strikes targeting various sites in Iran, including military and nuclear facilities, resulting in the deaths of high-ranking commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians.
In the aftermath, the IRGC confirmed that its intelligence chief, Mohammad Kazemi, and his deputy, Hassan Mohaghegh, were among those killed in the Israeli airstrikes on Tehran.
Furthermore, the strikes led to the assassination of notable figures such as Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, and Commander Amir Ali Hajizadeh, among others.
The IRGC also reported other fatalities including Mahmoud Bagheri, Davoud Sheikhian, Mohammad-Bagher Taherpour, Mansour Safarpour, Masoud Tayyeb, Khosrow Hassani, Javad Jorsara, and Mohammad Aghajafari.
Iran retaliated with multiple waves of missile and drone strikes, causing injuries and destruction. A ceasefire was eventually established on June 24.