Military Strategy
How are Iran's leaders responding to threats from the US and Israel?
Iran's leaders are responding with defiance and confidence to threats from the US and Israel. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghei declared that when it comes to Iran, foreign adversaries 'cannot do a damn thing,' highlighting their belief in Iran's resilience against external pressures. This sentiment was reinforced by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who on Monday asserted that Iran could successfully defend itself against any attack by its enemies. The IRGC is also preparing Operation True Promise 3, signaling Iran's readiness to launch a counterattack rather than merely taking a defensive stance.
Watch clip answer (00:19m)What military operations has Iran conducted against Israel and what did they involve?
Iran has conducted two major military operations against Israel, codenamed Operation True Promise. The first attack took place on April 13, 2024, known as Operation True Promise 1, which involved more than 300 missiles and drones targeting Israeli military installations. Following this, Iran carried out Operation True Promise 2 on October 1, 2024, launching approximately 200 missiles against Israeli military facilities. The transcript suggests Iran is also threatening a third attack, referred to as Operation True Promise 3, as part of its escalating military strategy against Israel amid ongoing regional tensions.
Watch clip answer (00:23m)What has Iran warned about regarding Israel?
Iran has explicitly warned of a third attack on Israel, according to statements from IRGC's Deputy Commander Ali Fadavi. He indicated that a third direct attack on Israel will occur 'in due course,' suggesting that what Iranian officials refer to as 'Operation True Promise 3' is being planned as a follow-up to previous missile strikes against Israel. This warning comes amid escalating regional tensions and reflects Iran's continued assertiveness in the face of international pressures, particularly regarding its nuclear program and ongoing conflicts with Israel.
Watch clip answer (00:09m)What is India's AMCA stealth fighter project and what are its goals?
India's indigenous AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) stealth fighter project aims to deliver seven squadrons by 2035. This ambitious initiative represents a significant advancement in India's military aviation capabilities, positioning the country to join an elite group of stealth aircraft manufacturers globally. The successful implementation of this project would place India alongside major military powers like the US, Russia, and China in advanced fighter jet development. The timing of this project is noteworthy as India also considers international options like the F35 and SU57 fighters.
Watch clip answer (00:16m)What is India's response to President Trump's proposal to sell F35 fighter jets to India?
According to Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, India has not yet received any formal offer from the US regarding F35 fighter jets, despite President Trump's proposal during his meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Washington DC. Singh clarified that once a formal offer is made, India will evaluate it with an open mind. The Defense Secretary's statement indicates India's pragmatic approach to defense acquisitions, neither rejecting nor accepting the proposal prematurely. This stance allows India to carefully assess the strategic and technical merits of the F35 jets when an official proposal arrives.
Watch clip answer (00:29m)How do the American F35 and Russian SU57 fighter jets compare in terms of specifications and costs?
The American F35 has a top speed of Mach 1.6 and a combat range of 1500 kilometers, with a price tag between $80-110 million per unit. In comparison, Russia's SU57 offers superior performance with a higher speed of Mach 2 and an extended range of 1900 kilometers, while costing significantly less at $35-40 million per unit. Both jets represent cutting-edge military technology being offered to India as it evaluates its defense procurement options. The comparison highlights the trade-offs between American and Russian military hardware, with the Russian option providing better specifications at a substantially lower price point.
Watch clip answer (00:52m)