In February of last year, Iran’s military unveiled a formidable addition to its defense arsenal: an underground airbase named Eagle 44 (Oghab 44). Showcased to local media, the airbase, heralded as a pivotal military facility, is designed to house Iran’s fighter jets and advanced drones. The announcement underscored the nation’s growing military ambitions amid heightened regional tensions.
General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, issued a stern warning during the unveiling: “Any attack on Iran by its enemies, including Israel, will receive a response from many of our air force bases, including ‘Eagle 44.’” This declaration, made through the state-run news agency IRNA, marked the airbase as a symbol of Iran’s resilience and readiness to counter external threats.
Eagle 44 is touted as one of Iran’s most vital military installations. It has been strategically built to house fighter aircraft equipped with long-range guided cruise missiles. Reports from IRNA highlight that the facility, located hundreds of meters beneath the mountains, is engineered to withstand high-intensity bombing campaigns, including those from advanced American bombers.
Although the exact location of the airbase remains classified, defense analysts speculate that it lies approximately 120 kilometers north of Bandar Abbas in Hormozgan Province. This area, close to the Strait of Hormuz, holds significant geopolitical importance as it oversees one of the world’s busiest oil transit routes.
International defense experts suggest that Eagle 44 is being prepared to accommodate the Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets that Iran is expected to acquire from Russia. These advanced fighter jets, considered among the most capable in Russia’s fleet, are poised to enhance Iran’s air force capabilities substantially.
By the end of 2024, Iran is set to receive 24 Su-35 jets. Satellite imagery has revealed the construction of mock-ups of the Su-35 at Eagle 44, underscoring Iran’s meticulous planning to integrate these aircraft into its underground facility. Former U.S. government imagery analyst Chris Biggers stated that these mock-ups serve to ensure the base’s design is optimized for the jets’ dimensions and maneuverability.
The growing military collaboration between Iran and Russia has drawn significant attention, particularly as both nations face Western sanctions and geopolitical isolation. Tehran has emerged as a key supplier of drones to Moscow, providing essential equipment for Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. This burgeoning partnership appears to be reciprocal, with Moscow facilitating Iran’s acquisition of the Su-35 jets.
Initially, the Su-35 fighters were intended for Egypt, but U.S. economic sanctions on Cairo disrupted the deal. Russia’s willingness to redirect the aircraft to Iran highlights the close ties between the two nations, raising concerns among Western powers about the implications of this alliance.
Iran’s air force has long been reliant on outdated U.S.-made aircraft, such as the F-4 Phantom, acquired during the Shah’s pro-Western regime before the 1979 revolution. The introduction of the Su-35 marks a significant upgrade, signaling Iran’s intent to modernize its aerial fleet.
The Su-35, equipped with advanced avionics and long-range weaponry, is expected to bolster Iran’s defensive and offensive capabilities. Combined with Eagle 44’s strategic location and deep fortification, this development enhances Tehran’s ability to project power and safeguard its territorial integrity.
The unveiling of Eagle 44 and the acquisition of Su-35 fighter jets have raised alarm bells in the region. Israel, a longstanding adversary of Iran, views these developments as a direct threat. With ongoing tensions over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the military build-up has further strained relations between the two nations.
The proximity of Eagle 44 to the Strait of Hormuz also heightens its strategic value. The strait is a chokepoint for global oil shipments, and Iran’s control over this region could have far-reaching implications for international energy security. Any escalation in hostilities could disrupt maritime traffic, with profound consequences for the global economy.
Satellite images indicate that construction at Eagle 44 is still underway, with additional facilities likely being added to enhance its operational capacity. These developments suggest that Iran aims to solidify its underground airbase network, potentially establishing similar bases across the country.
The choice to build underground is not just about fortification but also secrecy. These facilities are difficult to detect and target, offering Iran a strategic advantage in a potential conflict.
The West has expressed concerns about the implications of Iran’s growing military capabilities. The U.S. and its allies have long sought to curtail Tehran’s military ambitions through sanctions and diplomatic pressure. However, Iran’s partnership with Russia complicates these efforts, as it provides Tehran with access to advanced weaponry and technology.
Israel, in particular, has intensified its rhetoric against Iran. Israeli officials have repeatedly emphasized their readiness to take preemptive action against any perceived threats. The unveiling of Eagle 44 is likely to influence Israel’s military planning, potentially prompting preemptive strikes or increased surveillance efforts.
Eagle 44 symbolizes Iran’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities in the face of mounting pressure from its adversaries. Its strategic location, advanced aircraft, and fortified structure make it a formidable asset. However, it also highlights the region’s escalating arms race and the potential for conflict.
As construction continues and geopolitical dynamics evolve, Eagle 44 will remain a focal point of international scrutiny. Its existence raises critical questions about the balance of power in the Middle East and the effectiveness of diplomatic efforts to address security concerns.
