Akhlaghi Ketabchi was confirmed by parliament in a 237 to 15 vote, though 25 lawmakers missed the virtual session due to a lack of internet access. A sanctioned veteran of the missile industry with ties to the Revolutionary Guards, the new minister replaces Aziz Nasirzadeh, who died during US-Israeli strikes on February 28. Unlike previous ministers from military command roles, Akhlaghi Ketabchi spent 42 years in technical and managerial positions within Iran's weapons manufacturing sector.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Story
Iran Defense Minister Plans Homegrown Heavy Fighter For Next Year
War2 days ago
Defense factories are being shifted to secure sites inside mountains and protected facilities, new Defense Minister Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi announced on Sunday. The minister stated that Iran is abandoning old construction locations to better protect its military-industrial base from aerial strikes. Ketabchi also announced that a heavy fighter jet manufactured entirely within Iran will take flight next year, adding that Iran's military currently has its "finger on the trigger" regarding a potential conflict with Israel.
Looking for more context or analysis?
Tilt chat provides reliable, tailored insights, alerts, and automations.