Iran launches production of its own mid-size submarine

Iran launches production of its own mid-size submarine

Iranian state TV says the country has launched the production of an all-domestically built, mid-size submarine that will be able to fire missiles and torpedoes.

Defense Minister Gen. Mostafa Mohammad Najjar inaugurated the production line of the sub, named Ghaem, at a ceremony Monday. According to the TV, he said Iran has made huge investments to attain self-sufficiency and equip its armed forces with modern weapons.

The TV also said two other submarines, named Ghdair, have been delivered to the Iranian Navy. Their production began in 2005.

Iran occasionally announces making advanced weapons but rarely makes statements about submarines. Years ago, Tehran said it bought some Russian subs and would produce its own, smaller-sized ones.