Iran’s new defense minister: Heavy fighter jet built domestically expected to take flight next year

Iran's new Defense Minister, Mehrdad Ahlaghki Ketabchi, announced that a domestically built heavy fighter jet is expected to make its maiden flight in 2027, with initial testing phases scheduled for later this year. The announcement highlights Iran's efforts to develop independent capabilities for manufacturing heavy, multirole fighter jets.

Iran's new Defense Minister, Mehrdad Ahlaghki Ketabchi, announced that Iran is making progress in developing an indigenously produced heavy fighter jet, expressing hope that the aircraft will make its maiden flight in 2027. According to the minister, the aircraft's initial testing phases are scheduled to take place later this year. The announcement comes as Iran pursues plans to develop independent capabilities to manufacture heavy, multirole fighter jets.