Iran's Air Force: Navigating Sanctions And Shaping Regional Power

Mr. Clifford Terry 19 Jun 2025

The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF), known in Persian as نیروی هوایی ارتش جمهوری اسلامی ایران, stands as the aviation branch of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army and a critical component of the Iranian armed forces. Its journey from the Imperial Iranian Air Force, renamed in 1979 following the Islamic Revolution, has been one of constant adaptation, resilience, and strategic evolution in the face of profound geopolitical shifts and persistent international sanctions. This unique trajectory has forged an air power defined by a dual structure and a doctrine shaped by decades of regional rivalries, making it a subject of intense scrutiny for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of modern Middle Eastern security dynamics.

As we delve deeper into the Islamic Republic of Iran’s air force, it becomes clear that its capabilities are not merely a reflection of its inventory but also a testament to its strategic ingenuity. Despite facing significant hurdles, the IRIAF continues to play a pivotal role in the nation's defense posture, embodying a fascinating case study of military adaptation under duress. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Iran's air force, its structure, key aircraft, indigenous manufacturing efforts, and military doctrine, offering insights into its challenges within a complex geopolitical landscape.

A Legacy Forged in Revolution: The Genesis of the IRIAF
- From Imperial Might to Revolutionary Adaptation
- The Dual Structure of Iranian Air Power
Understanding Iran's Air Power: Global Standing and Inventory
Core Components and Key Aircraft of the IRIAF
The Doctrine of Resilience: Adapting to Geopolitical Realities
The Integrated Air Defense System and the Air Defense Force
Strategic Bases and Operational Hubs
Procurement, Readiness, and Future Outlook
The Human Element: Training and Personnel

A Legacy Forged in Revolution: The Genesis of the IRIAF

To truly appreciate the current state of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force, one must first understand its foundational history and the seismic shift that occurred in 1979. The service, established in the 1920s, has undergone significant evolution, particularly after the Islamic Revolution, adapting to geopolitical shifts and regional security dynamics.

From Imperial Might to Revolutionary Adaptation

The origins of Iranian air power trace back to the Imperial Iranian Air Force (IIAF), a branch of the Imperial Iranian Armed Forces. Established by Reza Shah, the Shah of Iran, in 1920, the IIAF became operational with its first fully trained pilots on February 25, 1925. During the Shah's era, Iran was a close ally of Western powers, particularly the United States, which supplied it with advanced aircraft and training. This period saw the IIAF equipped with some of the most sophisticated military aviation technology of its time, including F-14 Tomcats, F-4 Phantoms, and F-5 Freedom Fighters.

However, the 1979 Islamic Revolution dramatically altered this trajectory. The Imperial Iranian Air Force was renamed the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF), signaling a complete overhaul of its identity and allegiances. This transition was not without immense challenges. As a former member of Iran’s air force explained, the country experienced a profound shock. The sudden cessation of military aid, spare parts, and technical support from former Western allies, coupled with an exodus of experienced personnel, left the newly formed IRIAF in a precarious position. The air force had to quickly adapt, relying on its existing inventory and finding innovative ways to maintain and operate its predominantly Western-made fleet under severe international sanctions. This period of intense pressure forced Iran to develop indigenous capabilities and a doctrine of self-reliance, which continues to define the IRIAF today.

The Dual Structure of Iranian Air Power

One of the most defining characteristics of the Islamic Republic of Iran's air power is its unique dual structure. Unlike many conventional military forces where air assets are consolidated under a single command, Iran's air power is divided between the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF), which is the aviation branch of the regular Army (Artesh), and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force (IRGC-ASF). While this article primarily focuses on the IRIAF, it's crucial to acknowledge this broader context. The IRIAF typically handles conventional air defense, tactical air support, and strategic transport, maintaining a more traditional air force structure. This dual command structure, a product of the post-revolutionary era, reflects the country's layered defense strategy and the distinct roles assigned to its regular military and the ideologically driven Revolutionary Guard Corps. This division also adds a layer of complexity to understanding Iran's overall aerial fighting capabilities and its military doctrine.

Understanding Iran's Air Power: Global Standing and Inventory

Despite the persistent challenges posed by sanctions and an aging fleet, Iran maintains a significant military presence on the global stage. According to the GFP Index, Iran is denoted as a top 20 global military power. For 2025, Iran is ranked 16 of 145 out of the countries considered for the annual GFP review, holding a PWRINDX* score of 0.3048 (where a score of 0.0000 is considered 'perfect'). This entry was last reviewed on January 9, 2025, indicating up-to-date assessment.

When taking a closer look at the Islamic Republic of Iran’s air force, wdmma.org provides an overview of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (2025) with 400 aircraft in various categories. The service currently counts 400 total units in its active aircraft inventory. This figure represents a broad spectrum of aircraft types, from fighter jets to transport planes and helicopters, essential for a comprehensive air force. However, it is important to note that Iran's air force relies on a great number of jets made by former Western allies. This reliance, coupled with the long-standing sanctions, means that maintaining operational readiness and sourcing spare parts remains a continuous challenge. While the total number of units is substantial, the age and serviceability of these aircraft are critical factors in assessing their true combat effectiveness. Furthermore, the military factory records a total of 48 active Iranian Air Force aircraft (2025) entries, indicating specific types or operational units, with flag images indicative of country of origin and not necessarily the primary operator.

Core Components and Key Aircraft of the IRIAF

The core of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force's operational capability lies in its diverse, albeit aging, fleet. As mentioned, a significant portion of this inventory consists of aircraft originally supplied by Western nations prior to the 1979 revolution. This includes iconic models such as the F-14 Tomcat, F-4 Phantom II, and F-5 Tiger II, which form the backbone of its fighter and ground attack capabilities. The F-14, in particular, remains a formidable interceptor, though its maintenance and modernization without manufacturer support present immense engineering challenges.

Beyond these Western-origin aircraft, the IRIAF has also acquired a number of Russian and Chinese aircraft over the years, including MiG-29s, Su-24s, and J-7s (a Chinese variant of the MiG-21). These additions have provided some diversification and newer capabilities, but they also introduce complexities in terms of logistics and training. The necessity to maintain such a heterogeneous fleet, with varying maintenance requirements and supply chains, further complicates the IRIAF's operational readiness.

In addition to combat aircraft, the IRIAF operates a range of transport aircraft, including C-130 Hercules, as well as various helicopters, crucial for logistical support, search and rescue, and special operations. The focus on indigenous manufacturing has led to efforts to reverse-engineer parts, develop local maintenance expertise, and even produce some domestic variants or upgrades of existing platforms, such as the HESA Saeqeh, which is based on the F-5. While these efforts showcase Iran's determination and ingenuity, they also highlight the limitations imposed by the lack of access to advanced foreign technology and materials, impacting performance and reliability compared to modern international standards.

The Doctrine of Resilience: Adapting to Geopolitical Realities

The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force's doctrine is profoundly shaped by decades of international sanctions and regional rivalries. Unable to procure cutting-edge aircraft and systems from major global suppliers, Iran has developed a strategy centered on self-reliance, asymmetric warfare, and the integration of its air assets with a robust air defense system. This approach is not merely a choice but a necessity, born out of its geopolitical isolation.

A primary focus of the IRIAF has been on supporting the Iranian integrated air defense system. Recognizing that it cannot achieve air superiority against technologically superior adversaries in a conventional sense – meaning an air force can strike targets across a country at will, without major opposition from enemy aircraft or air defenses – Iran has invested heavily in creating a layered air defense network. This network aims to deny or severely complicate enemy air operations over Iranian airspace. The IRIAF's role within this doctrine is often to provide interceptor capabilities to challenge incoming threats and to offer combat support to ground forces, rather than engaging in large-scale offensive air campaigns.

Furthermore, the doctrine emphasizes indigenous manufacturing. Faced with an inability to purchase new aircraft or even spare parts for its existing fleet, Iran has poured resources into its domestic aerospace industry. This includes reverse-engineering, local production of components, and the development of new, albeit less advanced, aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This focus on self-sufficiency is a cornerstone of its resilience, ensuring that its air force can continue to operate and evolve, albeit at a slower pace, independent of external supply chains. This strategic depth allows the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force to maintain a credible deterrent posture, even under immense pressure.

The Integrated Air Defense System and the Air Defense Force

The concept of an integrated air defense system is paramount to Iran's overall military strategy, especially given the challenges faced by the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force in maintaining air superiority. Recognizing the critical need for a dedicated and modern air defense capability, Supreme Leader Khamenei established the Air Defense Force in 2019, making it the newest Artesh service. This move underscored the strategic importance of air defense in Iran's layered security architecture.

The Air Defense Force operates a wide range of indigenously produced air defense systems. These include various radar systems, command and control centers, and a diverse arsenal of surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), ranging from short-range portable systems to long-range strategic interceptors. Many of these systems are either reverse-engineered versions of foreign designs or entirely new systems developed through Iran's domestic military-industrial complex. This emphasis on indigenous production is a direct response to sanctions, ensuring that Iran can maintain and expand its air defense capabilities without relying on external suppliers.

The IRIAF's role is complementary to the Air Defense Force. While the Air Defense Force focuses on ground-based air defense, the IRIAF provides the aerial component of this integrated system. This includes patrolling Iranian airspace, intercepting potential threats, and coordinating with ground-based radar and missile units to form a cohesive defensive shield. This integrated approach is designed to deter and, if necessary, counter any aerial incursions, aiming to make any potential attack costly and complex for an adversary. This synergy between the air force and the dedicated air defense arm is crucial for Iran's ability to protect its airspace and critical infrastructure, especially in a region prone to aerial skirmishes and strategic strikes.

Strategic Bases and Operational Hubs

The operational backbone of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force is its network of air bases and military aviation installations spread across the country. These strategic hubs are vital for maintaining readiness, conducting training, and projecting air power when necessary. This page lists bases and airports operated or used by the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF), categorized for clarity.

Primarily, the IRIAF operates from 17 major operational air bases, known as Tactical Air Bases (TABs). These TABs are typically large, well-equipped facilities capable of housing various types of aircraft, providing maintenance, and supporting complex flight operations. Their strategic placement across Iran allows the IRIAF to cover vast areas of its airspace and respond to threats from different directions. Each TAB likely specializes in certain aircraft types or operational roles, contributing to the overall flexibility and reach of the air force.

In addition to these designated TABs, the IRIAF also utilizes other military aviation installations and joint civil/military facilities that do not carry a specific TAB designation number. These might include smaller airfields, training grounds, or specialized repair depots. Furthermore, the IRIAF occasionally uses civil airports, facilities under civil authority that sources indicate to be utilized for military purposes, particularly for transport or logistics. This dual-use capability allows for greater dispersal of assets and flexibility in operations, especially during times of heightened tension or conflict. The geographical distribution and operational readiness of these bases are crucial for the IRIAF's ability to execute its missions, from air defense to combat support for ground forces.

Procurement, Readiness, and Future Outlook

The current and future procurement, readiness rates, and global rank of the Iranian air service are subjects of intense scrutiny, reflecting the unique challenges faced by the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force. Despite its global rank as a top 20 military power, the IRIAF's ability to modernize its fleet is severely hampered by international sanctions. This means that while other nations regularly upgrade their air forces with fifth-generation fighters and advanced weaponry, Iran must rely on maintaining its existing, often aging, inventory and pursuing indigenous solutions.

Future procurement plans, therefore, often involve seeking out less restrictive suppliers, focusing on maintenance and upgrades of existing platforms, and investing heavily in domestic research and development. The readiness rates of its aircraft are a critical concern. Operating a fleet largely composed of aircraft from former Western allies, without access to original spare parts or technical support, requires extraordinary ingenuity and resourcefulness. Iran has developed a significant capacity for reverse-engineering and manufacturing components locally, but this process is slow and often results in parts that may not meet original specifications, potentially impacting performance and safety.

The ongoing struggle for air superiority is a persistent theme in Iran's strategic thinking. The concept of an air force that "can strike targets across a country at will, without major opposition from enemy aircraft or air defenses" remains an aspirational goal, particularly given the advanced air forces of potential adversaries in the region. Reports, such as those indicating approximately 25 fighter jets striking over 40 missile infrastructure components, including missile storage sites and military operatives of the Iranian regime, highlight the vulnerability Iran faces from external aerial threats. While these specific reports were officially denied by Tehran, they underscore the strategic imperative for Iran to strengthen its air defense capabilities and enhance the resilience of its air force. The future outlook for the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force will continue to be defined by this delicate balance between maintaining its current strength, adapting to technological advancements, and navigating the persistent constraints of international isolation.

The Human Element: Training and Personnel

Beyond the aircraft and strategic doctrines, the strength of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force fundamentally rests on its personnel. The pilots, technicians, engineers, and support staff are the human engine that keeps this complex machinery operational, especially under the extraordinary pressures of sanctions and limited resources. The experience of a former member of Iran’s air force, who explained the shock the country experienced after the revolution and what came next, highlights the profound human adaptation required within the service.

Training is a continuous and vital process within the IRIAF. New recruits undergo rigorous selection and training programs to become pilots, navigators, and ground crew. Given the reliance on older aircraft and the need for indigenous maintenance, the technical training for engineers and mechanics is particularly demanding, requiring deep knowledge of diverse aircraft systems and innovative problem-solving skills. This emphasis on in-house expertise is a direct consequence of the sanctions, forcing Iran to cultivate a highly skilled workforce capable of sustaining its air assets without external assistance.

The morale and readiness of personnel are also critical factors. Operating in a challenging geopolitical environment, often with older equipment, demands a high level of dedication and professionalism. The IRIAF strives to maintain a professional and motivated force, ensuring that its personnel are not only proficient in their technical roles but also deeply committed to the nation's defense objectives. This human element, their resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment, remains an indispensable asset for the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force as it navigates the complexities of modern air warfare.

Conclusion

The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force stands as a testament to resilience and adaptation in the face of persistent adversity. From its origins as the Imperial Iranian Air Force to its current form, the IRIAF has continuously evolved, shaped by the 1979 revolution, decades of international sanctions, and a complex regional security landscape. Its unique dual structure, reliance on an aging but maintained fleet, and a doctrine centered on self-reliance and integrated air defense underscore its distinct operational philosophy.

Despite being ranked as a top 20 global military power with a substantial inventory of 400 aircraft, the IRIAF faces significant challenges in procurement and maintaining readiness rates for its predominantly Western-origin jets. However, its unwavering focus on indigenous manufacturing, the establishment of the dedicated Air Defense Force, and the strategic utilization of its extensive network of tactical air bases demonstrate Iran's determination to safeguard its airspace and provide crucial combat support to its ground forces. The human element – the skilled and dedicated personnel – remains the bedrock of its operational capability, enabling the IRIAF to continue its vital role within the Iranian armed forces.

The story of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force is one of ingenuity born from necessity, a constant struggle to balance operational demands with technological limitations. As geopolitical dynamics continue to shift, the IRIAF's ability to adapt and innovate will remain crucial for Iran's defense posture and its influence in the region. What are your thoughts on the IRIAF's strategic role and its future trajectory? Share your insights in the comments below, or explore more articles on our site about global military forces and their unique challenges.

439 Iran Air Force Images, Stock Photos & Vectors | Shutterstock

Iran Air Force Military Maneuver Kicks Off In Esfahan - Iran Front Page

F-7M - Iran - Air Force | Aviation Photo #7153773 | Airliners.net

RealTime Reports