Major construction ongoing near Iran missile bases, satellite images suggest

Satellite imagery from November indicates that Iran is rebuilding and expanding military infrastructure after months of US and Israeli air strikes. At least 12 sites show signs of repair, including the Kermanshah missile base, where new roofs appear to cover damaged buildings, and the Parchin complex, where debris has been cleared and structures repaired. Work at Parchin’s Taleghan 2 facility appears to include rebuilding an underground bunker and reinforcing it with concrete. The most striking new activity is excavation near the Karaj and Shahroud bases, with analysts identifying possible tunnel entrances and underground facilities. Construction near Qom, close to the repeatedly bombed Fordo nuclear site, has also been observed.

Analysts say the underground work could protect missile production, storage or other military assets from future attacks, while making facilities harder to monitor. The purpose of the new structures is not confirmed, and some could serve non-production functions. The activity suggests Iran is preparing for possible renewed strikes and prioritizing restoration of military capability over economic recovery. It also complicates US claims that attacks have destroyed most of Iran’s missile, drone and naval industrial capacity: Iran says it retains substantial missile stocks, and state television has shown missiles near underground facilities. The construction comes amid speculation about further US action, although Vice-President JD Vance has pointed to the war’s unpopularity as a political liability for Republicans.