Very true. I would just add something I’ve said since the early days : Iran needs to take a hard look at reality and focus on building real, functional capability to address its critical gaps, especially in areas like air defense, combat aviation, and UAV platforms.
In today’s world, you can’t repeatedly showcase “world-class” defense systems without credible proof of operational performance. Unfortunately, Iran has developed a pattern of unveiling advanced-sounding platforms — new missiles, jet fighters, or radar systems often with little or no verified testing, deployment, or export credibility to back them. These announcements tend to generate headlines but fail to convince serious observers or military analysts.
Strategic credibility isn’t built on flashy unveilings, it’s built on tested capabilities, real deployments, and battlefield effectiveness. Iran would be better served by quietly developing and fielding systems, rather than making premature claims. In defense, showing your cards too early, especially when you don't yet have them only weakens your position.