Iran’s air force continues to operate F-14 fighter jets despite US sanctions and restrictions on the use of the jets, Iranian Air Force commander Aziz Nasirzadeh has said.

“Today, technicians at the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force do reverse engineering, and all parts required by this kind of fighter jet are made or upgraded inside the country and installed on the aircraft,” he added.

The jets are used for training and tactical drills on a regular basis.

The Iranian defence minister brigadier general Ahmad Vahidi said the nation’s air defence was capable enough to defend against any aerial threats against the Islamic Republic.