What is the IRGC Aerospace Force?
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force is a specialized branch responsible for the country’s ballistic missile program, drone operations, and air defense systems. The force was established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution on September 17, 1985, as the IRGC Air Force, but was renamed the IRGC Aerospace Force in 2009 as the regime sought to protect its own worldwide ideologies and interests.
Throughout their decades of operation, the IRGC Aerospace Force has deployed 7,500 drones, including Shahed-136 one-way attack drones, and 2,600 to 3,000 projectiles over the last two years against their enemies in the Middle East.
During the 2026 IRGC-Israel War, the IRGC Aerospace Force continued their operations by launching large-scale missile and drone attacks toward Israel, totalling 110 drone and missile operations.
Furthermore, since February 28, 2026, heavy barrages have fallen onto Israel, including 14 salvos launched on March 19 and nine major waves recorded by March.
During these attacks, they utilize hypersonic ballistic missiles that bypass advanced U.S. and Israeli air defense systems.
Yet, they are shot down upon entering Israeli airspace.
The primary significance of the IRGC Aerospace Force in this conflict lies in its ability to project the power of the IRGC to faraway countries.
Since the war began in late February, they have launched 2,000 projectiles into 13 Middle East and Gulf region countries, including Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.
Although the attacks on Israel remain constant, the IDF has adapted, eliminating all threats to Israel’s citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What are the main responsibilities of the IRGC Aerospace Force?
The IRGC Aerospace Force manages thousands of short-, medium-, and long-range mobile ballistic missiles, operates large fleets of military drones for reconnaissance and airstrikes, maintains surface-to-air missile systems, and develops satellite launch vehicles and rocket engines.
Source: https://iranwire.com/en/features/65747-the-irgc-aerospace-force/
2) Who commands the IRGC Aerospace Force?
Brigadier General Majid Mousavi serves as the commander.
Source: https://wanaen.com/irgc-aerospace-force-commander-issues-stern-warning-to-enemies/
3) How many personnel does the IRGC Aerospace Force have?
The IRGC Aerospace Force has 15,000 personnel.
Source: https://www.cfr.org/backgrounders/irans-revolutionary-guards
Why it matters
The IRGC Aerospace Force strictly operates the IRGC’s missile unit.
Sources
- Open Source Intel X Post, March 4, 2026
- "The Campaign Against Iran: Situation Assessment, Dilemmas, and Implications" INSS Insight No. 1996, June 17, 2025, Raz Zimmt, INSS, Tel Aviv University
- Open Source Intel X Post, August 14, 2026
- "Operation Roaring Lion": Summar of the First Phase" May 17, 2026, Tamir Hayman, INSS, Tel Aviv University
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