06 February 2025

Given the continuing tensions in the Middle East, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Navy inaugurated its first drone-carrier warship.

Re-engineered as a war vessel from a commercial ship, the Shahid Bagheri can carry helicopters, cruise missiles, and several drone squadrons. It can also travel up to 22,000 nautical miles without having to refuel at a port—essentially giving it the ability to sail independently on the seas for approximately one year.

According to General Hossein Salami, Chief of the Guard, the warship is necessary to increase Iran's deterrence capacity to prevent war—although he stressed the country does not want to wage war with any country.

“Iran is not considered a threat to any country," said Salami. "But we do not bow before threat by any power.” 

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