Iran Deploys Radar Systems for Potential US Strike

Iran is bolstering its military defense capabilities with the expansion of its Ghadir radar network, which is designed to detect incoming aircraft, missiles, and drones at long ranges, according to open source analysts.

By positioning these new radars in key areas, such as in the northwest near Tabriz and along the Persian Gulf coast, Iran aims to strengthen its air defenses against potential strikes from the United States and Israel.

Why It Matters

The expansion of the Ghadir radar system underscores Iran’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military infrastructure amidst growing tensions in the Middle East.

These advanced radars, with their ability to track a variety of aerial threats, represent a critical component in Iran’s broader defense strategy as the region’s security landscape becomes increasingly volatile.

With data from open-source intelligence and by using satellite imagery from Google Earth, the map below shows exactly where some of the new radar systems are located:

What to Know

The Ghadir radar, a high-frequency over-the-horizon system, is capable of detecting threats beyond the line of sight. This means it can track incoming aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles at up to 680 miles for ballistic missiles and 370 miles for aircraft.

The radar’s ability to spot low-flying and stealthy targets makes it a formidable part of Iran’s defense infrastructure. Additionally, the system is resistant to electronic warfare, allowing it to remain operational even in contested environments.

First unveiled in 2011, the Ghadir radar is a cornerstone of Iran’s air defense network, which also includes Russian-supplied S-300 systems and domestically produced missile batteries. These radars are strategically located along Iran’s borders and key maritime zones, including the vital Persian Gulf shipping lanes. Their position enables Iran to monitor and respond to threats from both air and sea.

Israeli Strikes

Last year, Israel carried out retaliatory airstrikes deep inside Iran, targeting key military sites in response to Tehran’s missile attacks earlier that month. Satellite imagery later showed that the Israeli strikes inflicted significant damage on Iran’s military infrastructure. Since then, tensions between the two rivals have remained high, with both sides bolstering their defenses and preparing for the possibility of further conflict.

The Houthi Factor

This rise in electronic warfare comes amid escalating tensions across the region. Since March, U.S. forces have carried out a military campaign against Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen, using precision airstrikes and missile attacks.

In response, the Houthis have stepped up their own assaults on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, launching anti-ship ballistic missiles and drones to disrupt shipping and confront U.S.-led naval forces.

What People Are Saying

Iran’s Brigadier General Farzad Esmaili: “The system can stand well against electronic warfare and has a minimal chance of being detected or destroyed by anti-radar missiles.”

President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform: “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN. And IRAN will be held responsible, and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire!”

What Happens Next

As tensions with the U.S. and Israel continue to simmer, the expansion of Iran’s radar network could help shape regional security dynamics. The new installations will enhance Iran’s ability to defend its airspace and critical infrastructure. How neighboring countries and global powers respond to Iran’s growing defense capabilities will influence the Middle East’s stability in the coming months.