Iran to Unveil Array of Weapons Next Week

Iran Defence Minister Ahmad Vahidi (AP)

Despite U.S. sanctions in protest of its nuclear program, Iran will reportedly unveil an array of weapons next week -- including missiles, speedboats and a long-range drone -- to kick off its annual government week showcasing Tehran’s achievements, according to AFP.

Iranian Defense Minister Ahmad Vahidi said on Tuesday that this launch indicates that "sanctions have had no impact on us, but made us more experienced and self-sufficient."

Vahidi's announcements come at a time when local officials have been warning against any attack on the Islamic republic. The U.S. and Israel have not ruled out a military strike against Iran to stop its controversial nuclear program.

The ISNA news agency reports that two missiles, Qiam (Rising) and the third generation Fateh 110 (Conqueror) will be tested, starting next Saturday, through August 30 when government week ends.

Vahidi said that Iran also will unveil the long-range drone Karar, which is named for the nickname of revered Muslim Shiite, Imam Ali.

In addition to these weapons, Vahidi said production lines of two missile-carrying speedboats, Seraj (Lamp) and Zolfaqar (named after Imam Ali's sword) would also be opened next week, according to ISNA reports.

Iran also inaugurates their space laboratory and opens production line of 130-millimeter ammunitions on the "Day of Defense Industry," August 22.

"The Day of Defense Industry represents Iranian nation's might, self-esteem and creativity," Vahidi told reporters in a press conference.