Iran has taken a significant step in expanding its naval capabilities by converting a former container ship into a dedicated platform for deploying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and helicopters. According to the Tasnim news agency, the newly unveiled vessel, named Shahid Beheshti, features a 180-meter-long runway and has been engineered to operate for up to one year without requiring refueling. This transformation is part of Iran’s broader strategy to enhance its maritime defense and offensive capabilities, particularly in distant waters.
During the unveiling, Commander of the Revolutionary Guards Navy, Alireza Tangsiri, emphasized that the Shahid Beheshti was designed to execute UAV and helicopter-based missions. The vessel boasts the capacity to carry 60 UAVs, which can be launched, controlled, and recovered from the ship’s deck. Additionally, the platform is equipped to accommodate and deploy various attack and support helicopters, further extending its operational versatility.
A key feature of the Shahid Beheshti is its ability to launch a miniature UAV version of Iran’s Qaher-313 stealth fighter jet, showcasing the country’s efforts to integrate advanced unmanned systems into its naval operations. In addition to UAVs and helicopters, the vessel is outfitted with short-range anti-ship missiles, fast attack boats, and unmanned submarines, reinforcing its multi-dimensional warfare capabilities.
According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, the Shahid Beheshti is designed to navigate in sea conditions up to level 9, making it highly resilient against rough maritime environments. Moreover, it has an operational range of 22,000 nautical miles, allowing it to project power far from Iranian shores without immediate logistical support. This extended endurance enhances Iran’s ability to maintain persistent naval operations in international waters, particularly in strategic zones such as the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, and beyond.
The Tasnim news agency reported that the Shahid Beheshti has been specifically engineered to remain operational for an entire year without the need for fuel resupply, significantly increasing its strategic autonomy. This extended range and endurance indicate Iran’s intent to maintain a continuous presence in remote maritime theaters, potentially influencing regional naval dynamics.
The unveiling of this unmanned aerial vehicle carrier took place during military exercises held between January and March, where Iran showcased its latest advancements in naval warfare. The Shahid Beheshti’s introduction signals a new phase in Iran’s naval strategy, emphasizing unmanned warfare, asymmetric naval operations, and extended reach in international waters. This development could have far-reaching implications for maritime security in the Middle East, particularly in areas of strategic geopolitical tension.
