Shahid Bagheri
On February 6, Shahid Bagheri (C110-4) Drone Carrier was officially commissioned as a significant addition to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy. This vessel is the first of its kind in Iran and marks a significant milestone in Iran’s maritime modernization efforts. The drone carrier is expected to enhance Iran’s naval combat and intelligence capabilities, both within the Persian Gulf and beyond.
The drone carrier was constructed by converting a 42,000-ton container ship named Perarin. It has impressive dimensions, measuring 240 meters in length, 32 meters in width, and featuring a draft of 12 meters. Unique to this vessel is its 180-meter runway and an upwardly curved ramp, similar to those found on traditional aircraft carriers, designed to facilitate the efficient takeoff of drones.
As a multipurpose platform, the ship can carry a diverse array of drones and helicopters, with ample space on its lower levels for housing numerous drones, missile-capable speedboats, and additional operational equipment.
With a reported capacity to carry 60 drones and 30 fast missile boats, the Shahid Bagheri significantly enhances the IRGC Navy’s operational flexibility and firepower. As is standard for aircraft and drone carriers, the vessel is equipped with elevators that transport aircraft and essential supplies between the hangar and the deck.
Flight runway and ski-jump on the Shahid Bagheri drone carrier
Moreover, the area behind the bridge includes a helicopter pad designated for the carrier’s primary helicopter(s). During the unveiling ceremony, this section was tented for the event, further emphasizing the significance of the occasion.
The videos show the 60% scale variant of the Qaem drone being transferred to the ship’s deck by elevator and the 20% scale variant undergoing a flight test
Shahid Bagheri
In terms of armaments, the Shahid Bagheri is outfitted with a robust array of weaponry. It features eight Kowsar 222 air defense missiles, each capable of engaging targets at a range of 17 km, strategically positioned at both the front and rear of the ship. Along with this, the vessel is armed with eight anti-ship missiles from the Qader/Nasir series, organized into four twin launchers located behind the bridge. The ship is also equipped with a single-barreled 30 mm cannon, which incorporates an advanced electro-optical system for precision targeting, as well as two triple-barreled 20 mm Asefeh Gatling guns located at the stern.
Admiral Tangsiri, the IRGC Navy commander has highlighted several key specifications and features of the Shahid Bagheri drone carrier:
- A top speed of 22 knots, allowing for rapid deployment and maneuverability in various maritime scenarios;
- Fast attack boats equipped with the capability to engage in missile operations at a range of 30 kilometers;
- A dedicated drone combat group tasked with reconnaissance, surveillance, and combat roles;
- A flotilla of attack and support helicopters, enhancing aerial capabilities in combat situations;
- A specialized submarine combat team to address underwater threats and capabilities;
- A six-bed specialized hospital along with various medical and support facilities to ensure crew health and readiness;
- The aforementioned 180-meter runway, optimized for drone operations;
- Three distinct fueling stations designed to accommodate helicopters, drones, and naval vessels, ensuring sustained operational capability;
- Skilled electronic warfare teams capable of disrupting enemy systems;
- Advanced missile defense systems to protect the carrier and its assets;
- Special capabilities for commando operations, allowing for swift, precise deployment of forces;
- A qualified diving team for underwater operations;
- Long-range surface-to-surface missile systems to engage distant targets effectively;
- A dedicated control tower for managing both drone and helicopter operations;
- A comprehensive drone squadron and eight two-story hangars for efficient storage and maintenance of aircraft;
- The operational capacity to maintain continuous activities for an entire year without resupply.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Shahid Bagheri is its integration of the Qaem Jet drones. Known internally as the Qaem (Ghaem) drone and externally as the Qaher 313, the carrier has been observed to utilize two distinct versions—60% and 20% scale models. However, it remains uncertain whether a full-scale version of the Qaem drone will be deployed aboard this vessel.
The Shahid Bagheri is also designed to launch missile-equipped fast craft, which can be deployed into the water using overhead cranes located on the sides of the ship.
This capability allows Iran to use the carrier as a floating base, facilitating various operations such as reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and direct combat missions in both nearby and international waters.
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weird. but sort of cool. honestly, a pretty good option for a country that wants an aircraft carrier on a budget.
better then trying to buy french ships that you never receive
the iranians don’t just talk and talk and talk.
they actually do things and get things accomplished, even if those weapons aren’t as good as the americans they have weapons that can be used.
if the iranians didn’t make drones the russians wouldn’t have nearly as many drones as they have.
impressive. iran is growing by leaps and bounds.