TEHRAN (IRNA) -- Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei here Saturday appointed Brigadier General Ahmad Miqani as the new commander of the Islamic Republic Air Force.

"Based on the recommendation of Islamic Republic of Iran Army Commander Major General Ataollah Salehi and taking into account your valuable experience, I hereby appoint you as the new commander of the Islamic Republic Air Force," the Leader said in his decree.

"Hopefully, with the services of qualified staff of the air force the defense potential of the country will increase," the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces added.

The Leader also praised the efforts of the former air force commander, Karim Qavami, and wished everybody success in their endeavors.