Iran Ramps Up Ballistic Missile Production Amid War Preparations
Iran has accelerated the production of its main armaments, signaling preparations for a new phase of hostilities, according to U.S. and Middle Eastern sources cited by The Wall Street Journal. The report indicates that Iran has restarted ballistic missile manufacturing at underground facilities, utilizing previously stockpiled components. This resumption of production occurred even after significant U.S. strikes on Iranian missile and industrial sites early in the conflict.
Production includes both liquid-fueled missiles, which require fueling before launch, and solid-fuel systems designed for long-term readiness. U.S. intelligence is monitoring activity at several underground Iranian sites, including the Khojireh missile complex in the southeast. Tehran is also reportedly constructing new, fortified assembly sites to enhance missile production's resilience against potential future attacks.
Despite these efforts, current production volumes are considerably lower than pre-war levels. This reduction is attributed to Israeli and U.S. strikes on industrial facilities involved in missile and component manufacturing, as well as a U.S. naval blockade hindering the import of necessary parts. Destroying Iran's missile capabilities was a primary objective of the U.S.-led operation initiated in late February, but the renewed production suggests this goal has not been fully achieved.
The ability of Tehran to rebuild its missile capacity maintains its potential for prolonged confrontation and a war of attrition. This development comes as Israel assesses scenarios involving intensified Iranian aggression, according to previous reports.