The next day, when we visit the model-making workshop, I see how much
energy goes into making these sandtables. Combatants use detailed maps to
determine the contours of the region in question. Each contour is then marked
on a scale model by using 
wafer-thin polystyrene sheets. Once the model is ready,
they paint it and designate the characteristics of the region, i.e. forests,
rivers, lakes and population centers. The models depict the deployment of
the Khomeini regime's forces with remarkable thoroughness and accuracy,
i.e. Every platoon, group, company, and battalion of the regime's Guards
Corps and military with its name, number of forces, equipment and exact
location of its bases. To reconnoitre and gather such detailed information
from within the enemy's ranks is a formidable but worthwhile task, as attested
by the qualitative growth of the NLAs victories.
On the opposite wall of the operation room, large glass cases display the various light weapons used by combatants of the National Liberation Army of Iran. Beside each is a little card bearing its name, type and technical information, i.e accuracy range, caliber, capacity, etc. Next to the display cases are an MG-3 heavy machine gun, G-3 assault rifle, AK-47 machine gun, various combat grenades and mortars, a bazooka, grenade launcher, an RPG-7 anti-tank weapon, and various semi-heavy weapons like a 106mm cannon and a 23mm anti-aircraft machine gun.
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