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Iran Demonstrates AI-Powered Missiles Launched from Drones in Persian Gulf Show of Force.


On January 26, 2025, Iran showcased its advanced military capabilities during the "Prophet Muhammad" naval exercise organized by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This event featured the deployment of cutting-edge combat drones, including the Mohajer-6 and Ababil-5, equipped with Qaem and Almas missiles enhanced by artificial intelligence. These precision-guided systems successfully destroyed simulated targets, delivering a clear strategic message to both regional and international audiences.

The Qaem and Almas missiles exemplify the diversification of Iran’s precision-strike capabilities (Picture source: Mehr News)


The exercise took place in the central and northern sectors of the Persian Gulf, spanning three key maritime regions. It included various operations such as ballistic missile launches, naval cruise missile strikes, amphibious maneuvers by IRGC commandos, and air defense simulations. A significant milestone was the use of the Novab air defense missile, launched for the first time from the domestically built Shahid Soleimani vessel. This ship represents Iran's efforts to modernize its naval fleet and achieve greater military self-sufficiency.

The Mohajer-6 drone, operational since 2018, is an ISTAR platform (intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance) with a 10-meter wingspan, a 12-hour flight endurance, a maximum speed of 200 km/h, and a service ceiling of 5,500 meters. Capable of carrying payloads up to 100 kilograms, it can deploy Qaem or Almas missiles, making it a versatile battlefield asset. Built with composite materials, it is equipped with advanced navigation systems, electro-optical imaging, and a laser rangefinder, enabling it to perform diverse missions, including electronic warfare.

The Ababil-5, introduced in 2022, is the most advanced model of the Ababil series. Powered by a Rotax-914 engine, it boasts a range of 480 kilometers and an operational ceiling of 5,500 meters. It can carry up to four Almas anti-tank missiles, with an effective range of 8 kilometers, or six Qaem precision-guided bombs, each weighing 2.4 kilograms with a range of 6 kilometers. Designed for reconnaissance and strike missions, it reflects significant advancements in Iran’s multirole drone technology.

The Qaem and Almas missiles exemplify the diversification of Iran’s precision-strike capabilities. The Qaem, available in air-to-ground and surface-to-air configurations, uses laser or infrared guidance for precision targeting against low-altitude drones, helicopters, or ground objectives. The Almas missile is designed for top-attack trajectories, penetrating light armored vehicles. With ranges of up to 10 kilometers depending on the variant, these systems are adaptable to drones, ground vehicles, and portable platforms, expanding their tactical applications. Their deployment by allied groups in the region, such as Hezbollah, further underscores their strategic significance.

During the exercise, IRGC naval forces also showcased a wide array of surface-to-surface and surface-to-sea missiles. Notable among them was an upgraded version of the Qadr missile, engineered to counter electronic warfare systems. These advancements align with Iran’s strategic focus on defending its territorial waters and countering potential foreign aggression.

A further highlight was the debut of Navvab air defense missiles, integrated into the Shahid Soleimani vessel’s defense systems. This innovation was complemented by coordinated ballistic and cruise missile launches, demonstrating the operational synergy across IRGC units.

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, emphasized the role of Iranian engineers in developing these advanced systems. He noted that integrating artificial intelligence into the Qaem and Almas missiles has significantly enhanced their precision and effectiveness, strengthening the operational capabilities of the Mohajer-6 and Ababil-5 drones. These technological advancements underline Iran's commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in a complex geopolitical environment.

IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami highlighted the primary objective of the exercise as enhancing the operational readiness of naval forces while sending a message of stability to neighboring countries. Despite regional tensions, Iran asserts its capability to address potential threats while advocating for peace in the Persian Gulf.

In summary, the "Prophet Muhammad" exercise demonstrated Iran’s growing military and technological capabilities. The successful deployment of Mohajer-6 and Ababil-5 drones, equipped with AI-enhanced Qaem and Almas missiles, illustrates significant progress in integrating advanced weapons systems into operational scenarios. This display underscores Iran’s strategic objectives and its determination to safeguard national interests amid regional uncertainties.


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