Iran Appoints Rocket Engineer Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi as Defense Minister
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS Arabic by baba
Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi, a 68-year-old rocket engineer with over 40 years in Iran's defense industry, was appointed Minister of Defense on October 18, 2026. He brings extensive experience in ballistic missile development, having held leadership roles in key military industrial organizations. Ketabchi has been subject to international sanctions due to his involvement in Iran's missile program. His appointment signals a focus on rebuilding and advancing Iran's military and missile capabilities amidst international scrutiny.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi appointed Iran's Defense Minister on October 18, 2026.
- Ketabchi, 68, has over 40 years of experience in Iran's missile and space industries.
- He is linked to the development of Sejil and Zulfiqar ballistic missile families.
- International sanctions have been imposed on Ketabchi due to his role in the missile program.
- His appointment aims to rebuild and advance Iran's military and industrial capabilities.
Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi, 68, has been appointed Iran's Minister of Defense following parliamentary approval on October 18, 2026. Ketabchi, who has spent over four decades in Iran's military industries, particularly in missile and space sectors, takes the helm as Tehran aims to rebuild its military and industrial capabilities.
Ketabchi's background is in defense industries, not traditional military fields. He possesses over 42 years of technical and administrative experience in developing ballistic missiles, solid-fuel propulsion systems, and space technology. Born in Rasht in 1958, he studied chemical engineering and holds a master's degree in strategic management from Malek Ashtar University of Technology, which is linked to the Ministry of Defense.
His career began in the Iranian defense industries in the 1980s, progressing through technical and administrative roles. He held leadership positions at key organizations such as Shahid Bakri Industries Group, the Aerospace Industries Organization, and the Iranian Defense Industries Organization, all involved in developing missile systems and military production.
Ketabchi's extensive experience in Iran's missile program is central to his profile. He has been linked to the development of the Sejil and Zulfiqar missile families and other military technology projects, including solid rocket motors and space launch systems. This expertise is crucial as Iran works to rehabilitate its military production facilities and enhance its missile and drone capabilities.
His involvement in the defense sector has led to international sanctions. The United States, the United Nations, and the European Union have imposed restrictions on him due to his role in the defense industry and his connections to entities developing ballistic missiles. EU documents show his inclusion in sanctions related to Iran's missile activities.
As Defense Minister, Ketabchi's primary tasks include rebuilding and expanding the military industry's infrastructure, accelerating defense technology development, and fostering cooperation with private companies. He has emphasized the need to develop Iran's military capabilities and stated that any new U.S. attack would be met with a broad response. His appointment signifies a shift towards leadership with deep industrial and technical expertise during a critical period for Iran's military modernization.
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