Iran Commissions First Mobile Maritime Platform for Drone and Helicopter Missions
On February 6, Iranian officials held ceremonies in Bandar Abbas to officially hand over and commission what they described as the first mobile maritime platform for drone and helicopter operations. This vessel was emphasized for its “defense capabilities and deterrence,” and officials claimed it would enable Iran to conduct operations globally.
Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, stated, “Just as foreigners enter Iran’s territorial waters, we will also operate in distant waters in accordance with international laws.” He asserted Iran’s right under international law to operate in waters worldwide, extending to the edges of territorial waters of all nations.
Source: Tasmin News Agency
The drone carrier, named Shahid Bagheri, has been in development for over two years following the conversion of a containership. Reports indicated that the 3 300 TEU boxships Sarvin and Perarin, built in South Korea in 2000, were being modified to launch drones.
Iran touted the new carrier’s capabilities, claiming it can navigate in seas up to Force 9 and has an operational range of 22 000 nautical miles, with the ability to remain at sea for up to a year without refueling.
According to the Tasnim News Agency, associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the carrier features a 180-meter (590 feet) runway and can accommodate multiple squadrons of unmanned aerial vehicles. It is capable of launching and landing drones, deploying reconnaissance and combat drones, and supporting light combat vessels, submersibles, and helicopters. The vessel is equipped with fueling facilities for drones, helicopters, and marine vessels, as well as “intelligence and control tower equipment” for detecting electronic signals and countering drones and missiles.
Additionally, the carrier includes support facilities for the crew, such as specialized hospital services, recreational areas, sports facilities, and a gym.
The unveiling of the new carrier coincided with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi’s response to Donald Trump’s threats to reinstate “maximum pressure” on Iran and cut off its oil exports. Araqchi labeled Trump’s previous efforts as a “failed experience” and warned that a repeat would lead to “Maximum Resistance.”
He also expressed Iran’s willingness to assure that it would not pursue nuclear weapons, provided that hostile measures against the country are lifted, calling for an end to economic pressures and sanctions.
