'IRI capable of building aircraft-carrier'

26 November 2011 | 22:37 Code : 18261 Latest Headlines

IRIB - Commander of the IRI Army's Naval Force Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari said on Saturday that the Iranian naval force is capable of building aircraft-carrier but its production is not a priority of the navy.

 

Addressing a news conference on the occasion of Naval Force Week, he added that the force produces equipment based on its needs and programs.

 

Underlining the capabilities of the naval force for remaining on international waters for a long time, he pointed out that two years ago vessels were sent to the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman on a 15-day missions while today they undertake 90-day missions on the waters.

 

Sayayri further stated that the naval force is on international waters based on the international regulations and if anyone threatens the country it will adopt a retaliatory measure.

 

He also said that Tareq-class training submarine simulator has been designed and produced by Iranian experts.

 

The force has plans to dispatch naval fleets beyond the Mediterranean Sea, the commander said, noting that the electronic warfare capabilities of the fore have increased.

 

The force's mission today is strategic, he said, noting that the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei has ordered the Iranian Navy to be present on deep and extraterritorial waters.

 

He also said that naval force has so far escorted 1,300 commercial ships and oil tankers off the waters.