- Officials highlight its role in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and missile operations.
- The 240-meter ship carries cruise missiles, air defense systems, and anti-ship weapons.
- It can operate independently for up to a year, boosting Iran’s maritime power.
Iran has formally launched its first aircraft carrier, the Shahid Bagheri (C110-4), a converted container ship, Perarin. The vessel forms part of a larger plan for the conversion of large commercial vessels into military service. The vessel has been prepared to allow helicopter takeoffs and landings, drone operations, and missile systems. Tehran expects this new acquisition to increase its control over regional waters and the country’s reach in naval capability, reports Daily Wrap.
A New Era in Iranian Naval Power
Speaking at the ceremony, General Salami mentioned that Iran never sought a conflict but was ready to not surrender under threat. He added that Shahid Bagheri was an adaptable, versatile mobile platform built to be used for reconnaissance purposes, missile activity, and surveillance through air means. Admiral Ali Reza Tangsiri underscored that this ship is designed to sail freely on international waters for one year at a time. That will make it the highest advancement Iran has ever made to increase operational ability.
The conversion of the ship started in May 2022 and was done within two years. It is a former commercial container ship, the Perarin; it was converted into an angled flight deck, a drone launch system, and other amenities available on the vessel, including a power plant and a hospital. It is reported that the carrier made sea trials in November 2024, following which it is said that it will be commissioned a few months later.
Shahid Bagheri Capabilities and Armament
Information about the full capabilities of the Shahid Bagheri is limited, but available details indicate that the ship is around 240 meters long with a displacement of over 45,000 tonnes. It has a 180-meter runway and a top speed of 40 km/h. The vessel is equipped with Noor long-range cruise missiles, short-range air defense systems, two Asefeh 20mm guns, and a 30mm gun mounted on the bow. It also has a dedicated platform for launching anti-ship missiles, further strengthening its offensive capabilities.
The Shahid Bagheri, armed with its runway and support systems, enables the deployment of aircraft, such as Mi-17, Bell-412, and Shahed 278, in addition to drones like the Ababil-3, Mohajer-6, and Shahed-136. One of the weapons that has raised considerable attention is the Qaher-313, otherwise referred to as the F-313. This was originally unveiled in 2013 as a stealth fighter before its development was diverted to be an unmanned aerial vehicle.
Military Autonomy Moving Forward
The country has been pursuing a strategy of military self-sufficiency since 1992. It has manufactured its submarines, fighter jets, and tanks. The commissioning of the Shahid Bagheri is another milestone in this endeavor and demonstrates Iran’s capability to transform a commercial ship into a powerful military asset. An upgraded naval capability for Iran serves to further solidify its strategic posture in a complex geopolitical environment.
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Source: Daily Wrap
