Iran’s new defense minister: Heavy fighter jet built domestically expected to take flight next year

Iran's parliamentary assembly has chosen Mehrdad Akhlachi Ketabchi as the new defense minister, following the tragic death of his predecessor Majid Ebn al-Reza. Ebn al-Reza had assumed an interim role after the fatal US-Israeli strike that claimed the life of Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh in February. Akhlachi's extensive experience in Iran's defense sector, spanning decades and encompassing aerospace and missile industries, makes him a well-qualified successor.

Despite facing US and EU sanctions related to his work in Iran's defense industry, Akhlachi has expressed a commitment to revitalizing the nation's military infrastructure and fostering technological advancements. In a recent speech, he vowed to strengthen cooperation with private enterprises to bolster Iran's defense production and procurement capabilities.

Additionally, Akhlachi warned of potential retaliation from the United States, should they miscalculate in their military strategy. He stated that the valiant Iranian people and Muslim fighters would respond with surprising and extensive force, should the Americans employ their "mother of all bombs" against Iran. He also emphasized that the US should prioritize withdrawing its forces from the region, warning that a single bomb strike could result in a significant loss of American troops.