Israel‘s recent attack on Iran has likely damaged a base operated by the Revolutionary Guard, who are responsible for building ballistic missiles and launching rockets as part of Iran’s space program. Satellite images analysed by The Associated Press (AP) show significant damage at the Shahroud base in Semnan province.
Iran’s ‘Secret’ Military Bases Hit? New Satellite Images Reveal Aftermath Of Israeli Airstrike
The images reveal that a major building at the Shahroud Space Center has been destroyed, with vehicles seen around the site, likely for inspection. Additional smaller structures also appeared damaged.
The Revolutionary Guard has not acknowledged the attack.
Analyst Fabian Hinz from the International Institute for Strategic Studies commented, “We’ve seen enough imagery to show there’s an impact.”
The attack on Shahroud, coupled with strikes at other locations, might restrict the Guard’s ability to manufacture solid-fuel ballistic missiles. Iran relies on these missiles for defense as it cannot purchase advanced Western weapons.
Israel targeted ‘missile manufacturing facilities,’ according to a previous statement from the Israeli military.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated, “Due to preparedness and vigilance of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s armed forces, and timely reaction by the country’s air defense, limited damage was caused to some of the points hit.”
The damage at Shahroud and other bases comes as Iran reportedly continues developing technology that could shorten the timeline to produce intercontinental ballistic missiles, according to the US intelligence community’s 2024 worldwide threat assessment.
Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons, asserting its space program and nuclear activities are for civilian purposes. However, US intelligence agencies and the International Atomic Energy Agency claim Iran had a military nuclear program until 2003.
As satellite photos indicate damage to Iran’s air defenses and missile launch facilities, an analysis by experts at Britain’s Royal United Services Institute warned, “The picture that is emerging is one of significant damage to Iranian air defenses as well as missile launch facilities, both of which would be intended to show the Iranians that they are vulnerable to further strikes if they attempt retaliation.”
Iran continues to assess the aftermath of Israel’s attack.