Marco Rubio expressed concern over Iran’s expanding drone and missile production, stating the US can manufacture only 6–7 interceptors per month while Tehran produces hundreds of missiles and thousands of drones.
Marco Rubio Warns of Iran’s Surging Drone Arsenal
New Delhi: US concerns about Iran's growing drone and missile capabilities have become increasingly apparent. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US can only produce 6 to 7 interceptor missiles per month, while Iran has the capacity to produce over 100 missiles and thousands of suicide drones. He made this statement before a briefing at the US Capitol.
Rubio stated that if timely action is not taken, Iran could cross the so-called "immunity line" within the next year and a half. This would mean Tehran would have such short-range missiles and drones that it would be nearly impossible to intercept them. He stated that the US knew in advance that Israel was going to attack Iran, and this could result in retaliatory strikes against US bases.
According to Rubio, Israel's planned action bought time for Washington. He argues that if the US had not struck first, it would have suffered greater losses. He clarified that Washington was taking steps to prevent an "immediate threat" because Israel was preparing to attack Iran alone.
According to reports, Tehran responded to the joint US-Israeli strikes by launching drones and missiles across the region. These attacks targeted US bases and other military assets in the Gulf region. There are also reports that several top Iranian leadership and officials were killed in the conflict, although these claims have not been independently confirmed.
The US and Israel launched military operations against Iran on February 28. The US launched "Operation Epic Fury," while Israel launched "Operation Roaring Lion." In response, Iran launched "Operation True Promise 4."
Experts believe that this conflict has now escalated beyond conventional warfare into a strategic conflict based on drones and missiles. Iran's drone power has not only affected the regional balance but has also forced military superpowers like the US to consider new strategies.
