Analysis of Iranian Military Publications
The Iranian military command has studied the Russo-Ukrainian war to draw lessons in the areas of drones, artificial intelligence, and mobile tactics. An analysis of over 300 articles published in Iranian military journals indicates that Tehran is adapting its textbooks and training methodologies based on Ukrainian experience. The publications are linked to staff colleges of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the regular Armed Forces of Iran, and among the authors of the articles are senior commanders, officers, and scholars.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Hosseyn Dadvand, who heads the combat college north of Tehran, noted:
“The Russo-Ukrainian war is one of the cases we have studied closely. One of the most important aspects of this war was the widespread use of small drones and artificial intelligence.”Recommendations that Dadvand published two years ago included:
- investments in drones;
- deployment of more mobile combat units;
- application of artificial intelligence in weaponry.
In 2023, Generals Kiumars Heydari and Abdolali Porshasb, who previously led the Iranian army, warned of new threats, calling for the rapid recruitment of specialists, reform of military training, and procurement of modern armaments, including drones, lasers, and space platforms. Recommendations from the former Air Force commander and Iranian defense minister Aziz Nasirzadeh also included updating the fighter fleet by acquiring Russian Su-35 fighters, equipping the Air Force with suicide drones, as well as integrating artificial intelligence into target selection systems. Tehran has confirmed its intention to acquire Su-35s, although deliveries have yet to occur.
The analysis of Iranian military publications has drawn the attention of U.S. intelligence. The articles also addressed other issues, such as the temptations for soldiers to join 'deviant sects', problems in military hospitals, prevention of suicidal thoughts, and discrimination based on poverty or ethnic background in academies. This attention to Ukrainian experience indicates Iran's desire to adapt its military strategy in the context of modern conflicts.
The study of Iranian military publications underscores Tehran's growing interest in new technologies and tactics used in modern wars. Learning from the experiences of other countries, particularly Ukraine, indicates Iran's intent to modernize its armed forces and enhance their effectiveness. This could also influence regional security, as improvements in Iran's military capabilities may raise concerns among neighboring countries and international players.
As Iran continues to refine its military strategies by incorporating insights from the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, it is crucial to examine the broader implications of these adaptations. The ongoing modernization efforts, which are influenced by lessons learned in drone warfare and AI integration, reflect a significant shift in Iran's defense posture. To understand how these changes align with regional security dynamics and stalled diplomatic negotiations, explore our detailed analysis of Iran's military evolution in light of the Ukraine war.