IRGC Navy’s Drone Carrier A Mobile Maritime Platform for Drone, Helicopter Missions

This is according to IRCG Navy Commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, addressing the ceremony on Thursday morning.

He said the addition of the vessel to the IRGC Navy fleet is a significant step in enhancing the defensive capabilities and deterrence of the Islamic Republic of Iran in distant waters and in safeguarding the nation’s national interests.

The Martyr Baqeri drone carrier is capable of carrying several squadrons of unmanned aerial vehicles, launching and landing unmanned fighter jets, deploying various reconnaissance and combat drones, launching and recovering various light and fast combat vessels, as well as carrying and deploying various combat and support helicopters, he said.

The commander added that the vessel serves as a mobile maritime platform for conducting drone and helicopter missions across the oceans.

Its ability to navigate in seas up to force 9 (oceans) and an operational range of 22,000 nautical miles (offshore) enables it to operate and conduct missions for up to a year without needing to refuel in distant waters, he noted.

The Martyr Baqeri Drone Carrier features a 180-meter-long runway and is equipped with facilities for fueling and refueling drones, marine vessels, and helicopters, short and medium-range air defense systems, intelligence and control tower equipment, capabilities for carrying and deploying various types of drones, guided submersibles, the ability to detect all sorts of electronic signals, comprehensive electronic warfare capabilities, long-range surface guns and weapons, long-range surface cruise missiles, and the capability to counter various small drones and air defense missiles, Rear Admiral Tangsiri said.

He said the vessel is also equipped with specialized hospital facilities, including an operating room, CCU, radiology, dentistry, and sports facilities, such as a multi-purpose sports hall, artificial turf field, and gym.