Article Posted on : - May 24, 2012

TEHRAN (AP): Iran's official news agency says Iran's military has wound up a one-day exercise in the centre of the country.

The report on Wednesday by IRNA says Gen Ahmad Reza Pourdastan, commander of Iran's ground forces, described the aim of the exercise as showing Iran's readiness to confront "global arrogance," a reference to the United States, as well as improving the capabilities of the forces.

He said jet fighters took part in successful maneuvers, and new weapons were tested.

The one-day drill has been held annually since 1987. This year's coincided with nuclear talks between Iran and world powers in Baghdad.

The exercise was held in Isfahan province, which hosts Iran's uranium enrichment and conversion facilities.

The West suspects Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons. Iran denies that.