Tasnim � Iran�s Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami said the country is developing a new homegrown jet trainer, dubbed Kowsar-88.

Addressing a conference on aerial power in Tehran on Tuesday, General Hatami said the new aircraft that will be used for training is being manufactured using local technologies and designs.

Elsewhere, he highlighted the Defense Ministry�s success in unveiling the country�s first homegrown fighter jet in August, and said the military plane has passed all tests and would be mass-produced if the project is financed.

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.

Iranian officials have repeatedly underscored that the country will not hesitate to strengthen its military capabilities, including its missile power, which are entirely meant for defense, and that Iran�s defense capabilities will be never subject to negotiations.