Iran bolsters northern defence with new Nazir radar system

Iran has strengthened its air defence by launching the Nazir radar in the Gilan province on the Caspian Sea. According to Defense Express, radar construction began in 2022, and the main structure was completed by the end of 2023. However, it was expected to be operational or launched only at the beginning of 2025. The Nazir radar is a complex of antennas and transmission-reception systems.

The mentioned radar includes more than just antennas. As Defense Express explains, Nazir is essentially a complex of reception and transmission equipment with power systems. The Nazir radar has the capability to detect objects at a distance of up to 800 kilometres (500 miles) and an altitude of up to 30 kilometres (19 miles). It can track low-visibility objects such as cruise missiles and register ballistic missile launches.

The location where Iran decided to build the Nazir radar is significant. The structure was built on Mount Sumam, the highest point in the region. This ensures Nazir has a large range. This, in turn, means that Iran can observe an area previously not covered by an air defence system. The radar covers parts of Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, and Central Asian countries.

The location of the Nazir radar is crucial, especially concerning potential threats from the north. Iranian sources indicate that during attacks from Israel, some were carried out from the northern direction, using Azerbaijan’s airspace. The new radar will allow Iran to detect such threats earlier.

Due to its location at an altitude of 3,720 metres (12,208 feet), the Nazir radar can detect targets at a distance of 280 kilometres (174 miles) if they are at an altitude of 50 metres (164 feet). The 800-kilometre (500-mile) range is possible for objects at an altitude of 17 kilometres (11 miles). Aircraft at an altitude of 5 kilometres (3 miles) can be detected from a distance of 500 kilometres (311 miles).