Who Is Mehrdad Akhlaghi? Iran’s New Defence Minister

Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi is Iran’s new defence minister, approved by the country’s parliament on October 18, 2026. He is a veteran of Iran’s defence industry who previously led the country’s Aerospace Industries Organization and has experience in aerospace and missile-related programmes.

His appointment comes amid continuing tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel. He has pledged to strengthen Iran’s domestic defence production, advance military technology and rebuild the country’s defence-industrial infrastructure.

Who Is Mehrdad Akhlaghi?

Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi is a senior Iranian defence official with decades of experience in the country’s military-industrial sector.

Before becoming defence minister, he held senior positions in Iran’s defence establishment, including heading the Aerospace Industries Organization. His career has been associated with aerospace development, missile-related activities and defence production.

His appointment places an experienced defence industry official in charge of Iran’s Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics.

When Did Mehrdad Akhlaghi Become Iran’s Defence Minister?

Iran’s parliament approved Akhlaghi’s appointment on Sunday, October 18, 2026.

According to reporting by Anadolu Agency, he received 237 votes in favour and 15 against, with no abstentions, out of 277 votes cast.

He succeeds the previous defence minister, Aziz Nasirzadeh, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Iran in February 2026. Majid Ebn al-Reza subsequently served as acting defence minister.

The parliamentary vote ended months of interim leadership at the ministry.

What Did Mehrdad Akhlaghi Do Before His Appointment?

Akhlaghi spent decades working in Iran’s defence industry before becoming defence minister.

One of his most significant previous roles was heading the Aerospace Industries Organization, an organisation involved in Iran’s aerospace and missile-related programmes.

His experience includes areas connected to defence research, technology development and military-industrial production.

These responsibilities are relevant to the priorities he outlined before parliament, including rebuilding defence infrastructure, developing military technologies and expanding cooperation with private-sector companies.

Is Mehrdad Akhlaghi Under International Sanctions?

Yes. Reporting by Reuters and other news organisations states that Akhlaghi is subject to US and European Union sanctions connected to his work in Iran’s defence sector and missile-related activities.

The restrictions form part of broader international measures targeting individuals and organisations associated with Iran’s military and missile programmes.

Sanctions can limit access to financial services, assets and certain international business activities, depending on the applicable restrictions.

What Has Mehrdad Akhlaghi Said About the United States and Israel?

During his parliamentary appearance, Akhlaghi warned that Iran would respond extensively if the United States and Israel launched another attack against the country.

He also stressed the importance of strengthening Iran’s defence capabilities and expanding domestic military production.

His remarks reflect the security concerns surrounding his appointment. However, his statements do not by themselves establish what military or diplomatic decisions Iran will make in the future.

What Are His Plans for Iran’s Defence Industry?

In the programme he presented to lawmakers, Akhlaghi outlined several priorities for the Defence Ministry.

These include:

Rebuilding Iran’s military-industrial infrastructure.
Accelerating the development of defence technologies.
Expanding domestic defence production.
Increasing cooperation with private-sector companies.
Adapting the ministry’s structure to current security challenges.

Implementing these plans will depend on available resources, industrial capacity and developments in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi?

Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi is an Iranian defence industry veteran who became the country’s defence minister on October 18, 2026.

What position did he hold before becoming defence minister?

He previously headed Iran’s Aerospace Industries Organization and held senior positions in the country’s defence sector.

Who did Mehrdad Akhlaghi replace?

He succeeded Aziz Nasirzadeh, who was killed in February 2026. Majid Ebn al-Reza served as acting defence minister before Akhlaghi’s appointment.

Is Mehrdad Akhlaghi sanctioned?

Yes. Reports from Reuters and other news organisations state that he is subject to US and EU sanctions linked to his work in Iran’s defence sector.

When was he appointed Iran’s defence minister?

Iran’s parliament approved his appointment on October 18, 2026.

What are his main priorities?

His stated priorities include rebuilding defence infrastructure, advancing military technology, expanding domestic production and increasing cooperation with private-sector companies.

Conclusion

Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi became Iran’s new defence minister on October 18, 2026, following parliamentary approval. His experience in the country’s defence industry, including his previous leadership of the Aerospace Industries Organization, is central to his new role.

He has pledged to strengthen domestic defence production and advance military technology. His leadership will be closely watched as Iran navigates international sanctions and continuing regional tensions.

Originally published at Flames Nova