Iran Rebuilds Missile Production Sites After Israeli Strikes, Key Solid-Fuel Component Remains Absent

Reconstruction Underway at Key Iranian Missile Facilities

The Islamic Republic of Iran has commenced the reconstruction of several missile production sites that were damaged during a 12-day conflict with Israel in June 2025. Satellite imagery analyzed by The Associated Press indicates significant rebuilding efforts at facilities such as Parchin and Shahroud, which are vital for Iran's solid-fuel missile manufacturing capabilities.

Despite the ongoing reconstruction, a critical piece of equipment essential for the production of solid-fuel missiles, known as planetary mixers, is reportedly still absent from these sites. These specialized machines feature blades that revolve around a central point, providing superior mixing action for missile propellants compared to other equipment.

Impact of Israeli Strikes and Missing Components

The Israeli strikes in June 2025, and earlier hostilities in October 2024, specifically targeted buildings housing these mixers. Experts suggest that Israel's targeting strategy aimed to exploit a potential bottleneck in Iran's missile production process. Sam Lair, a research associate at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, noted that 'If they're able to reacquire some key things like planetary mixers, then that infrastructure is still there and ready to get rolling again.'

Before the June conflict, Iran possessed the capacity to produce more than 200 solid-fuel missiles per month. During the 12-day war, Iran reportedly fired over 570 ballistic missiles, depleting an estimated one-third of its arsenal, which was believed to comprise around 2,500 missiles.

Strategic Importance and International Implications

The reconstitution of its missile program is considered crucial for Iran's deterrence strategy, particularly after its air defense systems were significantly degraded during the recent conflict. Tehran views its missile capabilities as a key military deterrent and anticipates the possibility of another round of conflict with Israel.

The acquisition of new planetary mixers is a priority for Iran, especially as the country faces the potential reimposition of United Nations sanctions later this month, which would penalize further development of its missile program. Western officials speculate that Iran might seek to procure these mixers and other propellant chemicals from China, a country that has previously supplied materials for Iran's missile program.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, addressing the UN General Assembly, attributed the recent Israeli and US strikes to 'dealing a grievous blow' to peace negotiations. He also reiterated Iran's stance, stating that the country 'has never and will never seek to build a nuclear bomb.' Meanwhile, Iran's Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh has affirmed the country's focus on producing 'military equipment with higher precision and greater operational capabilities.'