Iran Launches Enormous Aircraft Carrier for Drone Deployment, but Military Experts Point Out Flaws
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World
February 12, 2025 10:30
iran - Iran unveils a converted 240-meter long and 42,000-ton containership with drone launch capabilities, raising concerns among military analysts.
Iran Unveils Converted Containership for Drone Launch
The Revolutionary Guard showcases the launch of a converted containership equipped with a ski ramp and hangars for drones. However, experts question its design and capabilities. The ship, named Shahid Bagheri, features a deck for drones with a range of 200 kilometers and is armed with Iranian-developed missiles and air defense systems.
Military analysts criticize the vessel, noting discrepancies in the size of the drones shown in promotional material and the ship's actual capacity. Concerns arise about the ship's ability to operate effectively in rough seas and the absence of essential landing and takeoff systems for drones. The ship's speed is reported to reach 20 knots (37 km/h) powered by its engines.
The Telegraph raises doubts about Iran's intentions to deploy the vessel beyond its waters, suggesting potential collaboration with China or Russia. The ship may primarily serve for espionage missions and intelligence sharing with allied countries.
The Shahid Bagheri is named after an Iranian military commander who died during the Iran-Iraq war, according to Naval News.