According to state media, Iran's military forces conducted a large-scale combined air defence practice on Tuesday near the Natanz uranium enrichment complex in central Isfahan province.

Qader Rahimzadeh, Commander of Khatam al-Anbia Air Defence Base, ordered the 'Eqtedar' (Power) 1403 exercise, according to IRIB TV. According to IRIB, the first phase consists of Aerospace Force troops of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) undertaking "all-out point defence of the nuclear site against numerous aerial threats under tough electronic warfare conditions."

The exercise is taking place amid rising tensions with Western nations over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The drills feature simulated attacks by drones, cruise missiles and fighter planes, with the focus on neutralising both low- and high-altitude targets. Iran's military highlighted the operational deployment of modern air defence systems such as the locally manufactured Bavar-373, which is said to challenge Russia's S-300 system.

According to Xinhua, Ali-Mohammad Naeini, IRGC spokesperson, told on Monday that the annual drills aim to maintain and strengthen military preparation, repel possible military acts and threats of sabotage, and promote national morale.

The drill comes as American news website Axios expressed last week as Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Advisor, provided US President Joe Biden with alternatives for a potential US attack on Iranian nuclear sites "should the Iranians move towards a nuclear weapon before January 20, 2025."

Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, stated on Monday that the nation is prepared for conversations "based on honour and dignity" to resolve issues related to its nuclear program and relieve sanctions. 

Baghaei commented that Iran holds their belief in dialogue, citing Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi's recent declaration that "we are ready for dignity and honour-based negotiations on lifting sanctions and removing concerns about the nature of Iran's nuclear programme."

'This is our fixed position." However, the nature of (any future) conversations should be determined after considering all factors, including the approaches and performances of the other parties,' Baghaei pointed out.

This exercise display raises regional tensions and delayed talks to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Western nations and Israel see Iran's nuclear achievements as a security concern despite Iran's claims that its nuclear programs are peaceful.

Analysts see the drill as a demonstration of Iran's military capabilities, intended to discourage any attacks on its nuclear sites. It highlights Iran's stance on safeguarding its sovereignty and responding decisively to perceived provocations.