INTRO:
The Islamic Republic of Iran Army, otherwise known as the Iranian Army, is the branch of the Iranian Armed Forces that is responsible for land-based military operations. It is one of the largest military forces in the Middle East and has been a major force in regional geopolitics for decades. In this article, we will provide an overview of the Iranian Army and its history, structure, leadership, recruitment and training, equipment and technology, military exercises and operations, and its future prospects.
Overview of the Iranian Army
The Iranian Army is the largest branch of the Iranian Armed Forces, with an estimated strength of 545,000 active personnel. It is the second-largest contingent of the country’s armed forces, after the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps. The Iranian Army is responsible for protecting the country’s territorial integrity, and for safeguarding the Islamic Revolution against internal and external threats. It is also tasked with providing assistance in times of crisis, including natural disasters and civil unrest.
History of the Iranian Army
The Iranian Army traces its history back to the 7th century, when a unified army was established by the Sasanian dynasty. Later, during the Safavid dynasty, the army was modernized and restructured. During the late 19th century, the Qajar dynasty sought to reform and modernize the army and introduce new technology and equipment. After the Pahlavi dynasty was overthrown in the 1979 Iranian Revolution, the army was restructured and reorganized into the Islamic Republic of Iran Army.
Structure of the Iranian Army
The Iranian Army is divided into several branches, including the Ground Forces, Air Force, Navy, and Air Defense Forces. The Ground Forces are the largest branch, with over 400,000 personnel and 6,000 tanks. The Air Force has about 68,000 personnel and around 400 combat and transport aircraft. The Navy has about 20,000 personnel and a fleet of submarines, frigates, and patrol boats. The Air Defense Forces are responsible for defending Iranian airspace, and include surface-to-air missiles and radar systems.
Leadership of the Iranian Army
The Iranian Army is led by the Supreme Leader of Iran, who is the head of state and commander-in-chief. The regular army is led by the Chief of the General Staff, who is appointed by the Supreme Leader. The Chief of the General Staff is responsible for all military operations, including the planning and execution of operations, and is the highest-ranking military officer in the country.
Recruitment and Training
The Iranian Army is open to both male and female citizens of Iran, who must be at least 18 years of age. Recruits must pass physical and psychological tests, as well as background checks. Basic training typically lasts for 12 weeks, followed by specialist training for officers, non-commissioned officers, and technical personnel.
Equipment and Technology
The Iranian Army is equipped with a wide range of modern weaponry and technology, including tanks, submarines, missiles, fighter jets, and drones. The army also has an arsenal of chemical and biological weapons, though it denies any stockpiling of such weapons.
Military Exercises and Operations
The Iranian Army regularly conducts military exercises and operations. These exercises are primarily aimed at improving the army’s preparedness and ability to respond to potential threats. The army also conducts joint exercises with other nations, including China, Russia, and North Korea. In addition, the Iranian Army is involved in several overseas military operations, including in Iraq and Syria.
The Future of the Iranian Army
The future of the Iranian Army is uncertain, as the country faces a range of external threats. The United States has imposed numerous economic sanctions on the country, which have had a negative impact on the Iranian economy. In addition, the nation’s involvement in regional conflicts has drawn international criticism. Despite these challenges, the Iranian Army is likely to remain a major regional power for the foreseeable future.
OUTRO:
In summary, the Islamic Republic of Iran Army is the branch of the Iranian Armed Forces responsible for land-based military operations. It has a rich history and is well-equipped with modern weaponry and technology. The army regularly conducts military exercises and operations, both at home and abroad, and is likely to remain a major regional power in the future.