Iran unveils new drone-carrier warship to boost naval power

In recent years, Iran has made significant advancements in its naval capabilities through the unveiling of its first drone-carrier warship, the Shahid Bagheri. This vessel was showcased during a ceremony at the Persian Gulf port of Bandar Abbas, revealing its capacity to carry drones, helicopters, and cruise missiles, marking a pivotal point in the nation’s military modernization efforts. With features such as a 180-meter runway, the warship can operate at sea for up to one year without the need for refueling, signaling Iran's commitment to enhancing its maritime presence beyond its territorial waters. The design and construction of the Shahid Bagheri have been attributed to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which has previously emphasized the importance of military self-sufficiency since initiating a self-reliance plan in 1992. This strategic move aligns with Iran's broader goal of deterring potential threats, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with the United States and regional adversaries. Iranian leaders have publicly stated that the new warship enhances the country's defense capabilities and signifies its intention to maintain a credible military presence in international waters. Iran's ability to deploy such a warship may alter military dynamics within the Persian Gulf, heightening the concerns of the United States and its allies who are closely monitoring these developments. President Donald Trump’s administration has enforced strict sanctions on Iran, branding their military expansions as problematic and threatening. In response, Iranian officials, including General Hossein Salami of the IRGC, have dismissed these concerns, asserting that their military enhancements serve a defensive purpose and that Iran seeks to avoid conflict, despite being ready to respond to threats from any power. The addition of the Shahid Bagheri drone-carrier warship not only provides the IRGC with a potent tool for projecting power but also underlines the shifting landscape of naval capabilities in the region. Through this naval advancement, Iran is taking steps to ensure its self-defense, while simultaneously asserting its position as a significant player in the geopolitical sea around it. These developments add another layer to the ongoing narrative of military modernization in Iran, representing both a response to external pressures and a reaffirmation of its maritime ambitions.