Satellite Images Show Iran Building Underground Bunkers at Missile Bases

Iran is rapidly digging new underground bunkers and repairing missile bases, preparing to withstand further air strikes from the United States and Israel, according to satellite imagery analyzed by BBC Verify ^[1]. The construction activity centers on two major sites: the Garmdareh base in Karaj and the Shahroud base in northern Iran, where significant excavation work is visible in November photos. Analysts suggest these moves indicate Tehran is bracing for a resumption of hostilities after the recent US midterm elections.

The New York Post reported that the images show evidence of construction and digging at these key installations, with at least 12 other military sites showing signs of repair ^[2]. MAIAR, a British intelligence company that reviewed the imagery, told BBC Verify that Iran has a clear pattern of moving infrastructure underground to protect it from future attacks. Sam Lair, a research analyst at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, noted that the images near Karaj appear to show a new portal for an underground facility, suggesting a strategic effort to harden defenses.

Jim Lamson, a former CIA analyst, told the BBC that the excavations near Shahroud could be related to missile production ^[1]. He argued that because the nearby air base has been targeted multiple times, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps is likely trying to move production facilities underground. Mark Mellett, an expert on defense matters who previously served as the chief of staff of the Irish Defence Forces, explained that this subterranean approach makes it harder for outside observers to assess the extent of Iran’s operational status.

These developments follow months of US and Israeli air strikes that President Donald Trump previously described as having left Iran’s armed forces in a "complete and total mess." A Pentagon spokesperson claimed the US had destroyed up to 90% of Iran’s drone, ballistic missile, and naval industrial base. However, Iran claims to retain large stockpiles of missiles, with state television recently broadcasting footage of dozens of missiles at an underground facility in southern Iran. According to the Wall Street Journal, Iran has resumed producing liquid-propellant ballistic missiles, challenging US assertions of victory in Operation Epic Fury ^[2].

The timing is critical. Vice President JD Vance cited the war’s unpopularity for the Republicans' poor performance in this week's midterms, potentially costing his party control of the Senate. Experts told the New York Post that President Trump has a small window to renew his war on Iran before a new Congress likely reins in his war powers. As the White House pushes for renewed negotiations, Iran appears to be balancing diplomatic overtures with tangible military hardening, ensuring it can survive any future "finish the job" threats.