Natanz Nuclear Facility

The Natanz Nuclear Facility is a major Iranian uranium-enrichment complex near Natanz in Isfahan Province.

The Natanz Nuclear Facility is a major Iranian uranium-enrichment complex near Natanz in Isfahan Province. It is officially known as the Shahid Ahmadi Roshan Nuclear Facilities and is a central site in Iran's nuclear program. The facility has been the focus of international monitoring, diplomacy, and reported attacks in recent years.

Overview

Natanz is a nuclear enrichment complex in central Iran used for uranium enrichment. It is one of the most significant facilities in Iran's nuclear infrastructure and has been central to international concern over Iran's nuclear activities.

History

The facility was revealed publicly in 2002 and acknowledged by Iran in 2003. Construction began in secret, and international inspectors later visited the site under IAEA oversight.

Facility layout

Natanz contains the commercial-scale Fuel Enrichment Plant and the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant. Sources describe underground and above-ground components, with the underground plant built for centrifuge operations.

International significance

Natanz has been a key site in negotiations and disputes over Iran's nuclear program. It has also been repeatedly cited in reporting on sabotage, airstrikes, and damage to nuclear infrastructure.