Iran has deployed new drone warships, which has raised significant concerns, particularly for Israel and the United States. These ships, seen off the coast of Iran's Abbas naval port in the Persian Gulf, were once container ships but have now been converted for military use.
The ships, named "Shahid Bagheri," "Shahid Rudaki," and "Shahid Mahdavi," are specially designed to carry military drones. Satellite images show these three drone-carrying ships operating in the Persian Gulf. These ships are part of Iran’s growing naval power and its expanding use of drones in regional military conflicts.
Iran’s new drone warships are seen as a way to bring Iranian naval forces closer to potential battlefields, particularly in times of tension. Despite facing international sanctions, Iran has developed a fleet of armed drones, which have been used in various conflicts in the region, and even in Europe. Russian forces have allegedly used Iranian drones in their conflict with Ukraine.
One key addition to the Iranian fleet is the Shahid Mahdavi warship, commissioned into the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) navy in March 2023. This long-range warship is equipped with advanced technologies such as air defense systems, radar, and missiles. It is also capable of carrying drones, helicopters, and fast boats.
The Shahid Bagheri is another notable ship in Iran’s growing fleet. Some experts even refer to it as Iran’s first aircraft carrier. With a 790-foot deck, the Shahid Bagheri is used by the IRGC to monitor naval activities in the Persian Gulf.
While Iran does not have a traditional aircraft carrier, the Shahid Bagheri is considered Iran's closest alternative, although it lacks the ability to launch fighter jets from the sea.
Iran's increasing focus on drone warfare and the development of drone-carrying ships signals its growing influence in the Middle East and potential to disrupt regional stability. These new assets are raising alarms, particularly for countries like Israel and the United States, who are closely monitoring the situation.
