Amir Karim Bani Tarafi, IAIO acting chairman, did not provide any additional details, stating only that plans were based on operational needs of Iranian forces. IAIO is part of Iran's Ministry of Defense managing aviation industry in the country. Among other things, it seeks to promote domestic aircraft manufacture.
Last week, Iran unveiled a new version of its supersonic fighter, Saeqeh-2. The aircraft can reportedly be used for combat and tactical missions, as well as advanced pilot training, according to Brigadier General Amir Hatami, Iran’s deputy defense minister.
Iran reveals 'new' fighter type http://t.co/q80V0WLw1S #Iran pic.twitter.com/FPLGtdO2CF
— IHS4Defense Security (@IHS4DefRiskSec) 10 февраля 2015
The Saeqeh aircraft is based on the US Northrop F-5. IHS Jane’s, a defense consulting service, estimated that Iran’s air force has 17 more F-5F fighter jets, which can be converted into Saeqeh-2.
#Iran unveils its homemade Saeqeh-2 jet (beige). It is a twin seated aircraft as opposed to the first Saeqeh (blue). pic.twitter.com/rcaM4G8qD7
— Serge (@Zinvor) 10 февраля 2015
