Iran's Defense Ministry has unveiled a new domestically-built advanced supersonic trainer fighter jet, named Saeqeh 2 (Thunderbolt 2).

The double-cockpit supersonic Saeqeh 2 fighter jet has been designed and manufactured by experts and engineers of Defense Ministry's Aerospace Industries Organization and in cooperation with the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF), Iran's Deputy Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami said on Monday.

The fighter jet will do close-range cover and backup tactical missions as well as advanced pilot training missions, he added.

The commander noted that the new jet is the second generation of Saeqeh model which has been manufactured with enhanced combat capabilities.

The aircraft has been equipped with Electro Avionics systems and advanced weapons to enhance the training of pilots.

Hatami added that the plane is capable of engaging in intense aerial missions.

The unveiling ceremony comes on the 8th day of the ten-day celebrations commemorating the 36th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979.

Saeqeh was unveiled as a prototype in 2004 and later became operational in 2006. The jet is Iran’s second domestically-developed fighter with many calling it the Iranian F-18.

The bomber has the ability to track down enemy aircraft, engage in combat, target locations on the ground, and carry a load of assorted weapons and ammunition.

In the recent years, Iran has made great achievements in the defense sector and gained self-sufficiency in essential military hardware and defense systems.

The country has repeatedly announced that its defense might does not pose any threat to other countries as Iran's defense doctrine is totally based on deterrence.

SF/HMV/SS