Iran Revolutionary Guards Launch First Drone Carrier in Gulf Waters
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards revealed their first drone carrier, the Martyr Bahman Bagheri, in the Gulf. The carrier, capable of launching missiles and accommodating drones, is touted as the largest naval project in Iran’s history. Guards officials emphasized peaceful intentions despite a commitment to defend against threats. This event coincides with Iran’s Fajr decade celebrations.
On Thursday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards introduced their first drone carrier in Gulf waters, as reported by state media. This vessel, named Martyr Bahman Bagheri, was transformed from a commercial ship into a drone carrier over the last two and a half years, according to Guards naval commander Alireza Tangsiri.
Described as the “largest naval military project” in the Islamic Republic’s history, the carrier is capable of launching long-range missiles, as well as accommodating drones and helicopters. It is also equipped for electronic warfare and can remain operational at sea for up to a year, boasting a capacity of 60 drones as noted by the IRNA state news agency.
During the unveiling ceremony, Guards chief Hossein Salami reassured that Iran does not aim to threaten other nations, asserting, “we will not bow to the threat of any power.” He emphasized Iran’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and stated that the nation does not intend to engage in conflicts with recognized governments.
General Mohammad Bagheri, the Iranian armed forces chief who attended the ceremony, labeled the vessel as “a mobile base that can operate self-sufficiently throughout the world’s waters.” This unveiling occurs against the backdrop of Iran’s ongoing military advancements, including a newly unveiled ballistic missile with a range of 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles).
The introduction of the drone carrier aligns with the Fajr decade, a ten-day celebration marking the Islamic revolution that led to the overthrow of the U.S.-backed Iranian monarchy. Following U.S. President Donald Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy against Tehran, the Iranian government has intensified military demonstrations, showcasing various military capabilities such as significant exercises and underground bases.
The development of Iran’s military capabilities has accelerated since the 1979 revolution, particularly after a severance of relations with the United States, which had previously been Iran’s primary arms supplier. As tensions with the U.S. have increased, Tehran has invested in advancing its missile and drone technology to assert its military strength and deter perceived threats. The unveiling of new military assets during significant national celebrations illustrates Iran’s strategy to showcase its advancements while promoting a narrative of defensive rather than offensive military intent.
The unveiling of the Martyr Bahman Bagheri as Iran’s first drone carrier represents a significant milestone in the country’s military development. Coupled with advances in ballistic missile technology, this project reflects Iran’s determination to enhance its naval capabilities while maintaining a stance of deterrence against foreign threats. The Iranian leadership aims to project strength through military innovations without engaging in conflicts with recognized governments.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
