Iran claims unmanned Qaher-313 stealth fighter jet completes first flight tests.

According to the Tehran Times on December 14, 2024, Iran’s domestically produced Qaher stealth fighter jet completed its first flight tests in an unmanned configuration. The announcement was made during the 12th Iran International Aerospace Exhibition (Iran Airshow 2024) on Kish Island. General Afshin Khajefard, managing director of the Iran Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO), stated that the tests of the unmanned Qaher, a modification of the Qaher-313 initially unveiled in 2013, demonstrated progress in the project.
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The Qaher-313 is a domestically developed Iranian stealth aircraft initially unveiled in 2013 as a single-seat, manned fighter jet designed for short takeoff and landing. (Picture source: Tasnim)

The Qaher-313, initially designed as a single-seat stealth fighter for manned operations, has been redesigned to meet the requirements of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The capability for short takeoff and landing remains a central feature. Khajefard noted that Iranian experts are also focusing on developing a fleet of domestically produced jet trainers to achieve self-sufficiency in pilot training and a new combat helicopter for naval forces, which is expected to be unveiled soon.

At the airshow, Brigadier General Reza Talaei-Nik of the Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics highlighted the potential for Iran to emerge as a producer of commercial and passenger aircraft. Talaei-Nik explained that advancements in avionics, navigation, and electronics underline the dual-use nature of the aviation sector, serving both military and civilian needs. Collaboration between the defense industry, private firms, and international partners is a key focus of Iran’s Seventh Development Plan.

The airshow also featured the unveiling of the Mohajer-10 drone, capable of a 24-hour flight range of 2,000 kilometers and a payload capacity of 300 kilograms. This UAV operates at an altitude of up to 7,000 meters with a top speed of 210 km/h and is equipped with electronic warfare and intelligence-gathering technologies. The Arman-1 guided air-launched bomb was introduced alongside the delivery of strategic Khorramshahr and Haj Qassem missiles to the IRGC Aerospace Force. Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani reported significant increases in missile production, including ballistic, cruise, and air defense systems, over the past two years.

The Defense Ministry has also highlighted broader advancements, such as the development of the Simorgh light transport aircraft and new radar systems for the Kowsar fighter. Efforts are ongoing to manufacture passenger aircraft and electric drones, reflecting the dual-use application of aviation technologies. Other notable innovations include the Mohajer-6 tactical drone and the Fakour air-to-air missile, as well as one of the last public appearances of its F-14AM Tomcat, which will be replaced by the Russian Su-35SE. Iran’s Defense Industry Day announcements included expansion of its missile programs, such as the Talaiyeh ground assault missiles and upgrades to ballistic missile systems with ranges up to 2,000 kilometers. Production of solid-fuel ballistic missiles has increased by 64%, with similar growth in cruise missile and air defense technologies.

The Qaher-313 is a domestically developed Iranian stealth aircraft initially unveiled in 2013 as a single-seat, manned fighter jet designed for short takeoff and landing. The aircraft is approximately 14 meters long with a wingspan of 8 meters and features internal weapon bays capable of carrying air-to-air missiles or guided bombs. It is designed with a low radar cross-section and constructed from materials aimed at minimizing detection. Recently, the Qaher-313 project transitioned to focus on an unmanned configuration to meet operational requirements for tactical and reconnaissance missions.

Analysts have raised questions about the Qaher-313's structural design, particularly the small wings and absence of vertical stabilizers, which could limit maneuverability and stability in dynamic flight conditions. (Picture source: Tehran Times)

In its unmanned form, the Qaher-313 retains its core design elements while aiming to reduce operational risks associated with manned missions. It is intended for use in reconnaissance, air patrol, and ground-attack roles. However, analysts have raised questions about its structural design, particularly the small wings and absence of vertical stabilizers, which could limit maneuverability and stability in dynamic flight conditions. These design aspects may impact its performance in combat scenarios, but Iranian officials have continued to pursue the project to align with broader defense objectives.

The Qaher-313 is part of Iran’s broader efforts to develop indigenous military technology, particularly in the face of international sanctions restricting access to foreign systems. The project reflects the Iran Aviation Industries Organization's (IAIO) push to advance domestic aerospace capabilities alongside other developments, such as drone production and radar systems. While its operational readiness and capabilities are yet to be fully demonstrated, the Qaher-313 contributes to Iran’s strategy of achieving greater self-reliance in defense and aerospace technologies.

Several countries have worked on converting manned fighter jets into unmanned or remotely controlled variants. The United States has repurposed retired F-16s into QF-16 drones, which serve as aerial targets in training exercises. Similarly, China has adapted older J-6 and J-7 fighters into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), potentially for reconnaissance or as decoys in military operations. The U.S. Air Force is also exploring autonomous versions of F-16s to test artificial intelligence in aerial combat scenarios. Additionally, Taiwan has considered converting F-5E aircraft into unmanned jets.

The primary reasons for such conversions include cost-efficiency, extended operational utility, and safety in high-risk missions. Converting decommissioned aircraft reduces the need for entirely new UAV platforms while maintaining functional assets for roles like training, surveillance, or electronic warfare. Additionally, unmanned aircraft can conduct missions that would pose significant risks to pilots, increasing tactical flexibility. These conversions also provide valuable platforms for testing advanced technologies such as AI and autonomous systems, contributing to the integration of manned and unmanned platforms in future military operations.