Iran has launched its first production line of carbon fiber, a strategic material used in defense systems as well as civilian projects, the IRNA new agency reported on Saturday. Defense Minister Ahmad Vahidi said Iran had joined the 10 countries possessing the technology. Carbon fiber is used in advanced defense systems including nozzle heat shields, lightweight composite bodies of motors in solid-fuel missiles, wings and body of various types of fighter jets and civilian planes, as well as light weapons, he said. The material is also used in civilian projects, including reinforcement of buildings, construction of oil and gas drilling and exploration platforms, production of plane brakes and train carriages as well as sports equipment. Sanctions imposed against the country banned other countries from providing Iran with the material and the technology needed to produce it, Vahidi said.