Tehran outlines infrastructure upgrades while international concerns persist over dual-use missile technology
TEHRAN: Iran is accelerating its space programme by expanding infrastructure, developing advanced satellites and integrating artificial intelligence into satellite services, according to Hassan Salarieh, head of the Iranian Space Agency.
Salarieh said several new facilities, including satellite laboratories, control centres and the Chabahar launch site in southeastern Iran, are expected to become operational in the coming months. Additionally, Iran is establishing a nationwide network of satellite control centres to improve communication with satellites, speed up in-orbit testing and extend satellite operational lifespans.
He identified major projects currently under development, including the Nahid-2 and Nahid-3 communications satellites, the Shahid Soleimani satellite constellation, the Fars-2 and Fars-3 observation satellites and Iran’s first domestically developed radar satellite.
Artificial intelligence and international partnerships
Salarieh said Iran plans to combine satellite imagery with artificial intelligence to enhance data analysis and support sectors such as agriculture, water management, environmental protection, land monitoring and emergency response. He also said domestically developed communications satellites are expected to play a growing role in the country’s future telecommunications infrastructure.
Furthermore, he highlighted international cooperation as a priority, particularly continued collaboration with China and participation in the Chang’e lunar exploration programme. Iran also aims to export space-related products and services while benefiting from technological exchanges with advanced space nations.
Launch vehicles draw international scrutiny
Salarieh stated that the Simurgh and Qaem-100 launch vehicles have reached an acceptable level of maturity after multiple successful launches. Meanwhile, Iran is developing upgraded launch systems with greater payload capacity, with additional testing expected this year.
However, Iran’s expanding space programme continues to attract international attention. Western governments and security analysts have repeatedly argued that satellite launch technology could have dual-use applications, including contributing to long-range missile development. Israeli and US officials have previously expressed concerns that advances in Iran’s space capabilities could strengthen surveillance, missile technology and strategic military programmes, claims that Tehran has consistently rejected while maintaining that its space programme serves peaceful civilian purposes.
