Analysis: What Aircraft and UAVs Operate from Iran’s Shahid Bagheri Drone Carrier?.

Iran's commissioning of the first IRIS Shahid Bagheri aerial drone carrier ship marks a significant advancement in its naval aviation capabilities, particularly in integrating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into maritime operations. Originally a commercial container ship named Perarin, the Shahid Bagheri has been repurposed into a drone carrier by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN). The ship features a 180-meter-long angled flight deck, allowing for the launch and recovery of various UAVs and helicopters. This transformation aligns with Iran’s strategic approach of repurposing existing vessels to enhance its naval aviation capabilities.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Iran’s Shahid Bagheri drone carrier operates JAS-313, Mohajer-6, and Ababil-3 UAVs alongside Mi-17, Bell-412, and Bell-206 helicopters and a gyrocopter, enhancing naval air capabilities.(Picture source: X Account MHSangtarash)

The Iranian Shahid Bagheri aerial drone carrier ship is equipped with a range of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), each fulfilling specific operational roles. One of the most notable additions is the JAS-313 UAV, which is a scaled-down unmanned version of the Qaher-313 stealth fighter project. The carrier houses different scaled versions of the JAS-313, with 60%-scale and 25%-scale models, designated by tail numbers reflecting their respective sizes. These UAVs are designed for reconnaissance and potential strike missions, with stealth features intended to minimize radar detection. The presence of this platform demonstrates Iran’s continued investment in UAV technology and its application in naval warfare.

Alongside the JAS-313, the Shahid Bagheri carries well-established Iranian UAVs, such as the Mohajer-6 and Ababil-3. The JAS-313 is a scaled-down unmanned version of Iran’s Qaher-313 stealth fighter project, designed for reconnaissance and potential strike missions with reduced radar visibility. The Mohajer-6 is a combat and surveillance UAV capable of carrying guided munitions, with a range of around 200 km for reconnaissance and precision strikes. The Ababil-3 serves as a medium-range reconnaissance drone, providing real-time intelligence and battlefield awareness with extended flight endurance. These UAVs significantly extend the operational reach of the Shahid Bagheri, enabling long-range surveillance and precision strikes in maritime environments.

In addition to its UAV fleet, the Shahid Bagheri supports several manned aircraft, further expanding its operational versatility. It accommodates Mi-17 helicopters, which serve as transport and search-and-rescue platforms, along with Bell-412 and Bell-206 helicopters and gyrocopters, which can be used for reconnaissance, transport, and utility missions.

The Mi-17 is a versatile transport helicopter used for troop movement, cargo transport, and search-and-rescue missions. The Bell-412 is a multi-role utility helicopter known for its reliability, often used for transport, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation. The Bell-206 is a lightweight helicopter primarily used for training, surveillance, and light transport duties. 

While details remain scarce, the presence of a gyrocopter suggests a potential role in reconnaissance due to its maneuverability and lower operational costs. This diverse mix of aerial assets enhances the carrier’s ability to conduct various missions, from ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) to rapid response operations.

Beyond its aviation capabilities, the Shahid Bagheri is armed with various missile systems that enhance its defensive and offensive capabilities. The Qadr and Qadir missiles provide long-range anti-ship strike capabilities, while the Kowsar missile serves as a short-range option for engaging naval threats. Additionally, the ship is capable of deploying speedboats, with reports suggesting it can carry up to 30 Ashura-class missile speedboats in its lower decks. This capability aligns with Iran’s asymmetric naval warfare strategy, allowing for high-speed hit-and-run attacks against larger naval adversaries.

The integration of the Shahid Bagheri into the Iranian Navy represents a strategic shift toward enhanced power projection and operational flexibility in regional waters and beyond. Its combination of UAVs, helicopters, missile systems, and speedboats positions it as a multifaceted platform capable of conducting surveillance, strike, and rapid assault operations. This development highlights Iran’s ongoing advancements in indigenous military technology and its efforts to adapt existing assets to meet evolving naval challenges.

The Shahid Bagheri marks a significant evolution in Iran’s ability to operate a maritime UAV carrier, blending unmanned and manned systems to create a versatile naval asset. Its diverse aerial complement underscores a comprehensive approach to modern naval warfare, enhancing Iran’s ability to project power and secure its interests in the region. The vessel’s UAV and helicopter capabilities, in particular, provide Iran with a flexible and adaptive maritime force that can respond to a variety of threats and operational demands.