Iran’s defense minister nominee vows to enhance missile program

APD NEWS

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Iran’s Brigadier General Amir Hatami said on Thursday that he will improve the country's ballistic missile capabilities if he's appointed defense minister.

"In the next four years, apart from enhancing combat and defense capabilities, we will devote a special effort to boosting missile and ballistic power," said Hatami in Majlis, Iran's parliament.

He noted that stronger strategic air power and maritime power, and larger rapid reaction forces would be key priorities on his agenda over the next four years to counter US-led threats.

"Iran has achieved defense deterrence power and the enemies acknowledge Iran's high defense power in the region and the world," said Hatami.

Hatami is President Hassan Rouhani's pick for defense minister in the next cabinet.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)