Iran has reported a major increase in arms sales

Officials said the Defense Ministry has garnered new clients for Iranian military systems over the last 18 months. They said the sales included anti-tank missiles, naval boats and other platforms. On Thursday, Iranian Defense Minister Mostafa Najar reported a 75 percent increase in defense sales. Najar, who did not cite a figure, said this was the highest increase ever for Iran's military industry. In an interview with the official Iranian news agency, Irna, Najar said Iranian defense exports increased by 17 percent in the year that began in March 2006. The minister said defense sales in 2005 rose by 15 percent.