Iran's floating fortress: Shahid Bagheri boosts naval power
Iran has commissioned its first aircraft carrier, the Shahid Bagheri (C110-4), which was developed by converting the commercial container ship Perarin as part of a program to repurpose large commercial vessels for military use. The carrier has been adapted for helicopter takeoffs, drone operations, and missile system support. Tehran expects that the Shahid Bagheri will enhance control over regional waters and allow for expanded naval operations.
The newest photos and footage of the ship, which Iran describes as a floating naval base, were released on February 6, 2025, coinciding with the official commissioning ceremony. The ceremony took place in Bandar Abbas, located in the Persian Gulf, and was attended by key Iranian military figures, including General Hossein Salami, Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps; Admiral Ali Reza Tangsiri, Commander of the Iranian Navy; and Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces.
Shahid Bagheri - Iran's new aircraft carrier
During the ceremony, General Salami emphasized that Iran does not seek conflict with any nation but will not bow to any threats. He explained that the Shahid Bagheri was designed as a mobile platform for various missions, including intelligence gathering, missile attacks, and aerial surveillance. Admiral Ali Reza Tangsiri noted that the Shahid Bagheri could operate independently at sea for up to one year, significantly boosting Iran's operational capabilities in international waters.
The Shahid Bagheri was developed as part of Iran's strategy to enhance its naval capabilities by transforming commercial ships. According to The War Zone, the conversion likely started in May 2022 and took about two years to complete. During this time, the former container ship Perarin received upgrades such as an angled flight deck, a drone launch system, a power plant, and a hospital. The aircraft carrier underwent sea trials in November 2024, and its commissioning followed a few months later.
Details about the capabilities and equipment of the Shahid Bagheri aircraft carrier are still limited. However, it is known that the vessel is 787 feet long, with a displacement of over 45,000 tons. It features a 591-foot runway and can achieve a maximum speed of 25 mph. Army Recognition reports that the ship is armed with Noor long-range cruise missiles, short-range air defense systems, two Asefeh 0.8-inch caliber guns, and one 1.2-inch caliber gun located on the bow. Additionally, the Shahid Bagheri is equipped with an anti-ship missile launch platform.
The 591-foot runway and its equipment enable the Shahid Bagheri to handle various types of drones and helicopters. The list includes Mi-17, Bell-412, and Shahed 278 helicopters, as well as Ababil-3, Mohajer-6, Shahed-136 drones, and the Qaher-313, which has generated significant interest. The Qaher-313, also known as F-313, was first unveiled in February 2013.
Initially, the Qaher-313 was presented as an advanced, single-seat stealth fighter with radar evasion and low-altitude operating capabilities. However, Iran later decided to change its concept, likely due to new technological challenges. In 2023, Tehran announced that the Qaher-313 would be developed as an unmanned aerial vehicle, better suited to the current needs of the Iranian armed forces.
Since 1992, Iran has pursued a military self-sufficiency program, producing its submarines, fighter jets, and tanks. The Shahid Bagheri represents another step in this direction, showcasing Iran's ability to adapt and innovate in military technology.
