Washington (HRNW) – Iran has begun rebuilding its military strength much faster than expected and is reportedly more prepared than previously assessed for potential future attacks, according to a special CNN report citing US intelligence sources.
The report, based on information from four US intelligence officials, says Iran’s recovery of military capabilities is progressing at a significantly faster pace than initial estimates.
It adds that Iran’s ballistic missile, drone, and air defense systems were not fully destroyed in earlier strikes, with a large portion of its capabilities still intact. US intelligence estimates suggest that around two-thirds of Iran’s missile launchers remain operational, along with thousands of drones that represent nearly half of its total drone capacity.
According to the report, Iran resumed limited drone production during a six-week ceasefire period in early April and could restore full drone strike capability within six months. It is also rapidly rebuilding missile production facilities and related infrastructure damaged in US and Israeli attacks.
Sources claim Iran has received technical and industrial assistance from Russia and China, helping accelerate its recovery. The report also states that China allegedly continued supplying missile-related components during the conflict period, though these flows reportedly declined after increased US naval restrictions. China has rejected such claims, calling them baseless.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also alleged Chinese involvement in supplying missile parts to Iran.
US intelligence further contradicts earlier claims by US Central Command, whose chief Admiral Brad Cooper said Operation Epic Fury destroyed 90% of Iran’s defense-industrial base. Intelligence assessments instead suggest the damage may only delay Iran’s capabilities by months rather than years, as many facilities remain operational.
The report also notes that much of Iran’s coastal cruise missile infrastructure remains intact, posing continued risks to naval operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
Overall, US intelligence concludes that while Iran’s military capabilities were weakened, they were not eliminated, and the country is recovering faster than anticipated, maintaining its ability to pose regional security challenges.
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