Iran Ramps Up Secret Underground Nuclear Facility Construction Near Mount Pikax
Translated & summarized from Channel 9 by baba
Iran has significantly increased construction at a secret underground nuclear facility near Mount Pikax, according to CSIS analysis of satellite data. The facility's purpose is unknown, but intelligence suggests it may house centrifuges and enriched uranium, drawing international concern and threats from the U.S.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Iran is rapidly accelerating construction at a secret underground nuclear facility.
- Satellite data shows increased activity at the Mount Pikax site since January 2026.
- The facility is designed as a highly secure deep tunnel system.
- Its exact purpose is unknown, but intelligence suggests it may house nuclear components.
- The intensified construction has drawn international scrutiny and warnings from the U.S.
Iran has significantly accelerated construction activities at a secretive underground nuclear facility located near Mount Pikax, according to recent analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Satellite imagery spanning six years, including radar, optical, and high-resolution photos, indicates a notable surge in transport and construction equipment since January 2026, surpassing all previous activity levels since the site's inception. This facility, initiated in 2020, is situated two kilometers from the Natanz nuclear complex and is designed as a deep tunnel system beneath a granite massif, widely considered one of Iran's most secure nuclear infrastructure elements.
While construction slowed in April 2024, the recent intensification involves simultaneous work across major access roads and sections of the complex. Current efforts, as observed by CSIS, include reinforcing tunnel entrances, concreting internal roads, fortifying access zones, and clearing spoil heaps. These activities suggest a transition from extensive excavation to internal construction and further site hardening.
The precise purpose of the facility remains undisclosed. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has sought information but received no response. In July, Israeli intelligence suggested the potential transfer of thousands of centrifuges, nuclear components, and a portion of Iran's 440-kilogram stockpile of highly enriched uranium to the underground site. Following these reports, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a warning of a "very powerful strike" against any facility where Iran contemplates developing nuclear weapons. Iran condemned Trump's statement, labeling the intense scrutiny of the secret facility as "hostility towards progress" but did not clarify its function.
Mentioned
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Left 2Centre 4Right 2Haredi 1Arab 1Other 3
