Iran’s Revolutionary Guards launched their first drone carrier, Martyr Bahman Bagheri, equipped for missile launches and electronic warfare, capable of accommodating 60 drones. The unveiling, presented during a national celebration, emphasizes Iran’s military advancements and commitment to not threaten other nations, while also demonstrating resilience against external pressures.
On Thursday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards introduced their inaugural drone carrier, named Martyr Bahman Bagheri, in the Gulf region, according to reports from state media. This vessel, originally a commercial ship, has been transformed over the past two and a half years into a military drone carrier capable of launching long-range missiles, in addition to offering space for drones and helicopters.
Naval commander Alireza Tangsiri presented the project as the largest naval endeavor in the Islamic Republic’s history. The carrier is reportedly engineered for electronic warfare capabilities and has an impressive operational range, able to remain deployed at sea for up to one year. With a carrying capacity of sixty drones, it signifies a remarkable advancement in Iran’s naval warfare capabilities.
During the unveiling event, General Hossein Salami, head of the Guards, reiterated that Iran does not intend to threaten other nations, stating, “We will not bow to the threat of any power.” He added that Iran holds a commitment to avoid military conflicts with recognized governments. General Mohammad Bagheri, the chief of the Iranian military, described the drone carrier as a “mobile base that can operate self-sufficiently throughout the world’s waters.”
This announcement coincides with Iran’s recent unveiling of a ballistic missile capable of hitting targets as far as 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles) during a ceremony attended by President Masoud Pezeshkian. Since the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the ensuing severance of relations with the United States, Iran has successfully developed a sophisticated array of missiles and drones.
The timing of the drone carrier’s debut aligns with the Fajr decade, a ten-day observance celebrating the Islamic Revolution that overthrew the US-supported monarchy in Iran. Under the administration of former President Donald Trump, which pursued a stringent policy against Tehran, Iran’s government has made numerous displays of military prowess, including large-scale military drills and showcasing underground military facilities in recent days.
The recent unveiling of the Martyr Bahman Bagheri drone carrier signifies Iran’s escalating advancements in military technology, particularly in naval capabilities. Following the 1979 revolution, Iran has focused on developing indigenous weaponry, including drones and missiles, especially after losing support from the United States. The introduction of this drone carrier reflects both a strategic response to external pressures and a prideful assertion of military independence during an annual celebration of the Islamic Revolution.
In conclusion, Iran’s unveiling of its first drone carrier marks a significant milestone in its military capabilities and reflects its commitment to enhancing naval power. With features such as missile launch capabilities, advanced electronic warfare systems, and a large drone capacity, the Martyr Bahman Bagheri serves as a critical asset for the Revolutionary Guards. Furthermore, the statement from military officials emphasizes Iran’s intention to assert its sovereignty without provoking conflict with recognized governments.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
