Satellite imagery analyzed shows Iran fortifying key nuclear and military sites as tensions with the US rise.

Axar.az, citing Sky News, reports that activity at the Isfahan Nuclear Fuel Complex indicates structural repairs and the burial of tunnel entrances, steps that analyst David Albright said show “clear preparation in anticipation for attack, trying to minimise potential weak points.”

The Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) said backfilling tunnels could “help dampen any potential airstrike” and hinder ground raids.

At Natanz, images point to renewed construction at the damaged Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant and strengthened tunnel entrances at the nearby Pickaxe Mountain site, described as a “major vulnerability.”

Fordow, largely destroyed in 2025 strikes, has seen little activity.

Other sensitive military facilities are also being reinforced. At Parchin, satellite images show a “concrete sarcophagus” built around a new structure that ISIS said resembles a large high-explosives containment vessel, equipment “critical for nuclear weapons.” Iran denies seeking nuclear arms. The Tabriz Missile Base has also been repaired following earlier Israeli strikes.

Iran has paired these defensive steps with military signaling.

In January, it conducted joint naval drills with Russia in the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean to boost “operational coordination,” according to state media.

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