Satellite images suggest Iran prioritizes missile repairs over nuclear facilities
New satellite imagery reviewed by the New York Times indicates that Iran has moved quickly to restore much of its damaged ballistic missile infrastructure while making only limited progress on repairing key nuclear sites struck during last year’s conflict with Israel and subsequent United States airstrikes.
The analysis, published on Friday, found that more than a dozen missile related facilities damaged during the twelve day war have already been repaired or returned to operational status. By contrast, reconstruction efforts at major nuclear installations targeted in June 2025 appear modest and largely superficial. The findings emerged as Iran and the United States held their first round of indirect nuclear talks in Oman since the conflict, with Iran’s foreign minister describing the discussions as a positive opening focused solely on the nuclear file.
Imagery covering roughly twenty sites hit by Israeli and American forces shows active construction at more than half of the missile related locations. Intelligence assessments cited in the analysis suggest that Iran has largely rebuilt its ballistic missile program since the June attacks. The Shahroud missile test complex, described as the country’s newest and largest solid fuel missile production facility, appears to have resumed operations within months. Analysts noted signs of activity during winter conditions, including cleared access roads and heat patterns on rooftops, indicating continued use.
Experts say the pace of missile reconstruction stands in sharp contrast to the slower response at nuclear facilities. One security analyst told the Times that Iran’s focus reflects a strategic calculation, viewing missile capabilities as a primary means of deterring further strikes on its nuclear infrastructure. Another defense specialist explained that threatening Israel and United States bases and allies in the region remains one of Tehran’s few credible deterrent options.
At Iran’s principal nuclear sites, including Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, satellite images show limited surface level rebuilding. Since December, damaged buildings at Natanz and Isfahan have been fitted with new roofs, a move experts believe may be intended to conceal internal repair work rather than restore full enrichment capacity. Nearby excavation activity has accelerated at an area known as Pickaxe Mountain, where analysts suspect Iran may be constructing a deeply buried and heavily reinforced facility designed to withstand advanced bunker busting munitions.
Iran has denied international nuclear inspectors access to its facilities since the strikes, leaving satellite imagery as the primary means of external monitoring. This has heightened uncertainty around the true state of Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
The reconstruction campaign is unfolding amid heightened regional tensions. Washington continues to maintain a significant military presence in the Middle East, while President Donald Trump has warned of further action if diplomatic efforts fail. In response, Iran recently showcased its Khorramshahr four medium range ballistic missile at an underground facility days before the Oman talks. Senior Iranian military officials have also signaled a shift in doctrine, stating that the country has moved from a defensive posture to a more offensive stance following the twelve day war.
Both Tehran and Washington have indicated that additional rounds of negotiations are expected in the coming days.
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