Regional tensions in the Middle East have been escalating for a while now. Recently, Iran has started to enhance its military defense capabilities by expanding its radar network in response to the growing threats from the US and Israel. These advanced radars, capable of monitoring various aerial threats, have the potential to significantly alter the dynamics in the region. According to open-source analysts, Iran is reinforcing its military defense capabilities by expanding the Ghadir radar network designed to detect aircraft, missiles, and drones from long distances. Iran aims to strengthen its air defense against possible attacks from the US and Israel by deploying these new radars in key areas such as near Tebriz in the northwest and along the coast of the Persian Gulf, as reported by Newsweek. The expansion of the Ghadir radar system highlights Iran’s efforts to modernize its military infrastructure amid increasing tensions in the Middle East. These sophisticated radars, equipped with the ability to monitor various aerial threats, represent a critical component of Iran’s comprehensive defense strategy during a time when the security situation in the region is becoming increasingly unstable. WHAT IS GHADIR RADAR? Ghadir radar is a high-frequency over-the-horizon system capable of detecting threats beyond the line of sight. This means that it can track incoming aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles from distances of up to 680 miles and 370 miles for aircraft. Its ability to detect low-flying and stealth targets makes it a challenging element of Iran’s defense infrastructure. Additionally, its resistance to electronic warfare allows it to remain operational even in contested environments. Introduced in 2011, the Ghadir radar serves as a cornerstone of Iran’s air defense network, which includes Russian-supplied S-300 systems and domestically produced missile batteries. These radars are strategically positioned along important sea areas, including Iran’s borders and vital maritime transport routes in the Persian Gulf, enabling Iran to monitor and respond to threats from both air and sea. ISRAELI ATTACKS Last year, Israel conducted airstrikes deep inside Iranian territories targeting significant military facilities. Satellite images later revealed that the Israeli attacks caused substantial damage to Iran’s military infrastructure. Since then, tensions between the two rivals have remained high, leading both sides to bolster their defenses. As tensions escalate with the US and Israel, the expansion of Iran’s radar network could help shape regional security dynamics.