Objective: Deterrence, as a fundamental component of national security, has undergone profound transformations in contemporary Iranian history. An analysis of these developments appears essential for understanding the distinct models that have shaped the country's national security at critical historical junctures. The present study, with a comparative and analytical method, aims to examine the nature of Iran's military deterrence models during the two periods of the Pahlavi rule and the Islamic Republic.
Method: Employing a comparative method and analyzing data extracted from official sources and reputable domestic and international research, while also focusing on strategic documents and reports, this research seeks to answer the main question of how the transition from security dependence to defense self-reliance has led to an increase in the resilience of the Islamic Republic of Iran against sanctions and external pressures.
Findings: The research findings indicate that during the Pahlavi era, the deterrence strategy was based on structural dependence on Western powers, and national security was secured through the mass import of weaponry and the extensive presence of foreign military advisors. This model, which can be termed "Dependent Deterrence," had rendered the country vulnerable to international pressures. In contrast, the Islamic Republic of Iran, by adopting a resistance-oriented approach and emphasizing indigenous capabilities, established the model of "Self-reliant Deterrence." This novel strategy is founded upon domestic production, technological innovation, the development of asymmetric technologies, and the utilization of specialized human capacities. Conclusion: The transition to this model has not only guaranteed the country's strategic independence but has also, through the creation of an indigenous value chain in the defense sector, significantly increased the Islamic Republic's maneuverability and resilience in the face of comprehensive sanctions. This paradigmatic shift signifies the transition from purchased security to security produced domestically