The Shahid Bagheri becomes Iran’s first multirole drone carrier to counter foreign presence in regional waters.

On February 6, 2025, Iran commissioned its first drone carrier, the Shahid Bagheri (C110-4), into the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy. The vessel, a converted commercial container ship, is designed for the deployment of drones, helicopters, and missile systems. With an operational range and endurance suited for extended missions, the ship is expected to serve in key maritime regions. The ship’s integration into the fleet is part of Iran’s effort to expand its naval operations and control regional waters.
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The Shahid Bagheri, also known as Shahid Bahman Bagheri or Shahid Bakri, was developed as part of Iran’s strategy to improve its naval capabilities through cost-effective ship conversions. (Picture source: Iran media)

The commissioning ceremony took place in the Persian Gulf. The event was attended by General Hossein Salami, Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, and the Minister of Defense. General Salami stated that the Shahid Bagheri is designed as a mobile platform for various operations, including intelligence gathering, missile strikes, and aerial surveillance. IRGC Navy Commander Brigadier General Alireza Tangsiri described the ship’s conversion from a commercial vessel as part of Iran’s naval expansion efforts.

Officials stated that the ship enhances Iran’s maritime presence and operational capabilities. General Salami emphasized that the Shahid Bagheri is equipped for long-range operations, intelligence collection, and drone missions. Tangsiri noted that it is one of the largest naval projects undertaken by Iran, with capabilities supporting the deployment of missile boats, UAVs, and helicopters.

The Shahid Bagheri, also known as Shahid Bahman Bagheri or Shahid Bakri, was developed as part of Iran’s strategy to improve its naval capabilities through cost-effective ship conversions. The repurposing of a civilian vessel into a drone carrier follows a pattern seen in other countries seeking to maximize their maritime force projection. Iran has sought alternatives to conventional naval power by adapting commercial ships, similar to previous projects such as the Shahid Mahdavi and Shahid Rudaki vessels.

The ship includes a 240-meter flight deck for launching and recovering drones, helicopters, and fast-attack vessels. It can carry up to 60 drones and 30 missile launchers, significantly increasing its strike and reconnaissance capacity. The vessel is also equipped with electronic warfare systems and a command-and-control center for integrated operations. It houses a signal intelligence unit to enhance reconnaissance and threat response capabilities.

Additional features include a hospital, recreational areas, and logistical support for extended deployments. The ship can launch and reportedly retrieve up to 30 fast-attack boats, including those of the Tareq class, making it adaptable for rapid response missions. The vessel has eight fixed hangars and four mobile hangars to accommodate aircraft and vessels, allowing for mission-specific configurations.

The Shahid Bagheri includes a 240-meter flight deck for launching and recovering helicopters, fast-attack vessels, and up to 60 drones, including unmanned Qaher-313 jets, designated as JAS-313. (Picture source: Iran media)

The Shahid Bagheri supports multiple drone models, including reconnaissance and strike UAVs such as the Ababil-3, Mohajer-6, Shahed-136, and unmanned Qaher-313 fighters. It also carries helicopters, including the Mil mi-17, Bell-412 and Shahed 278, for various aerial operations. The ship's aviation facilities allow for surveillance, target acquisition, and attack missions. It includes an aircraft lift and a 180-meter runway for takeoff and landing.

Designed for long-term deployment, the Shahid Bagheri can operate for up to a year at sea without refueling, with an operational range of 22,000 nautical miles. It is armed with Noor long-range cruise missiles, short-range air defense systems, two Asefeh 20mm guns, and one 30mm cannon located at the front of the ship. The ship also includes an anti-ship missile launch platform capable of targeting at ranges up to 2,000 kilometers, along with a missile defense system.

The vessel has a displacement of approximately 41,978 tons, with a draft of 11.7 meters. Structural modifications include a reinforced flight deck, a sloping ramp for drone takeoff, and storage for fast-attack craft. The ship maintains elements of its original commercial design while incorporating military upgrades. It has a top speed of 22 knots, with an economic cruising speed of 18 knots for fuel efficiency.

The deployment of the Shahid Bagheri indicates Iran’s plans to extend its naval presence beyond the Persian Gulf. The ship is expected to operate in the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, and potentially the Indian Ocean. Iranian officials assert that the vessel will contribute to regional security while reducing reliance on external military forces. Its ability to transport drones and fast-attack craft supports extended-range operations.

Strategically, the drone carrier increases Iran’s maritime operational scope, enabling persistent surveillance and rapid-response missions. Its drone and missile deployment capabilities make it a notable addition to Iran’s naval assets. The Shahid Bagheri's integration of missile-launching vessels, UAVs, and reconnaissance functions reflects Iran's continued focus on asymmetric naval strategies.

Designed for long-term deployment, the Shahid Bagheri can operate for up to a year at sea without refueling, with an operational range of 22,000 nautical miles. (Picture source: Iran media)