Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ground troops practiced parachute jumps during a military exercise in Iran's northwestern border regions.

On the third day of the "Mighty Iran" military exercise, held in the Arax region along the northwestern borders in Ardabil and East Azerbaijan provinces, IRGC special forces conducted helicopter operations using Mi-17 helicopters, Tasnim reports.

The exercise participants also captured routes and heights controlled by the simulated enemy.

During the exercise, which began Monday, IRGC forces practiced installing pontoon bridges on rivers to move troops and vehicles for the first time.

The troops also conducted joint operations, including security and defense tactics.

In comments on the sidelines of the war games exercise, IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami reminded neighbors that Iran adheres to a policy of friendship and brotherhood as long as its enemies are not plotting against it. "We urge our neighbors to solve their problems through cooperation and non-military approaches. We have interests in this region, so if there is an incident in any corner of the region and our interests are threatened, we will not remain neutral and will stand up for our interests," the general said.