On May 28, Armenia held a military parade in Republic Square, the first large-scale parade since 2016. Prime Minister Pashinyan reiterated commitment to peace, but the parade showcased diverse weapon systems.
French Caesar howitzers, Indian Pinaka rockets, Iranian AD-08 Majid air defense, and Chinese CH-4 drones were displayed, indicating Armenia's diversified arms procurement.
The Iranian AD-08 Majid system highlighted growing Tehran-Yerevan military cooperation. Iran has been sensitive to regional changes, conducting exercises near Azerbaijan's border in 2021-2022.
Tehran frequently uses the "red line" phrase regarding Armenia's territorial integrity. Yet Iran also maintains humanitarian ties with Azerbaijan, revealing a hypocritical stance.
Azerbaijan remains the dominant power in the South Caucasus, pursuing an independent foreign policy based on national interests.
