Iran Reveals Underground Tunnel Packed with Hundreds of Kamikaze Drones

Iran has released footage of underground weapons tunnels stockpiled with drones and missiles as it mounts a counterattack following joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes.

According to CNN and Fars News Agency on Friday (local time), Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released video through state media showing underground tunnels housing drones and missiles.

The footage shows what appears to be tens or possibly hundreds of drones aligned in a single direction inside an endless tunnel. The triangular-winged aircraft closely resemble the Shahed-136 kamikaze drone developed by Iran, according to foreign media. Iranian flags hung from the ceiling while the drones were positioned at regular intervals as if awaiting deployment.

Missiles mounted on launcher vehicles were also revealed, with four missiles attached to each vehicle. The tunnel walls displayed large photographs of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was recently reported dead. The video also included footage of drones and missiles being launched.

While weapons depot locations and stockpile levels are typically classified during wartime, Iran publicized them to emphasize its organized and prepared military capabilities. CNN analyzed the footage as part of Iran's propaganda efforts following the U.S.-Israeli airstrikes. However, when and where the video was filmed, and whether the weapons shown were actually used in retaliatory strikes, could not be confirmed.

Drones have served as Iran's primary offensive weapon in the current conflict. Following joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on April 28, Iran launched retaliatory strikes using ballistic missiles and drones against targets in Israel, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait.

The Financial Times, citing Israeli military estimates, reported that Iran used approximately 500 missiles against Israel during the war last June, with about 90% intercepted and hundreds destroyed on the ground. Iran subsequently replenished its ballistic missile inventory and possessed approximately 2,500 missiles before the current strikes began, the report said.

Iran's decision to fully reveal its underground military facilities amid escalating Middle East tensions is interpreted as both a warning to the United States and Israel and a demonstration of its resolve for war.