Tasnim � The airborne division of Iran�s Army Ground Force on Monday unveiled a series of homegrown equipment and achievements extending the capabilities of its helicopters.

In a ceremony in Tehran, high-ranking Army officials unveiled the latest achievements of the young experts serving in the Ground Force�s Airborne Unit.

The major item put on display in the event was a missile dubbed �Shafaq� (Twilight), which is mounted on military helicopters.

The homegrown air-launched missile can hit targets within a range of 8 to 12 kilometers.

Another highlight of the ceremony was the launch of a program to equip all airborne unit choppers with night-vision cameras, which would enhance aircraft capabilities in nocturnal military missions.

Also highlighted at the event was the accomplishment of a plan to arm all reconnaissance, logistical and transportation helicopters of the unit with rocket-launchers and heavy machine guns.

Iranian military experts and technicians have in recent years made great headways in manufacturing a broad range of indigenous equipment, making the armed forces self-sufficient in the arms sphere.

In comments in February 2018, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei called for efforts to maintain and boost Iran�s defense capabilities, hitting back at the enemies for disputing the country�s missile program.

�Without a moment of hesitation, the country must move to acquire whatever is necessary for defense, even if the whole world is opposed to it,� the Leader said.