Iran Launches Its First Drone-Carrier Warship

Iran has unveiled its first drone-carrier warship, named Shahid Bagheri, capable of operating far from its mainland in efforts to boost its military deterrence. The vessel, manned by the Revolutionary Guard's navy, can accommodate multiple squadrons of drones, helicopters, and cruise missiles, according to the IRNA news agency. The warship features a 590-feet-long runway and can travel up to 22,000 nautical miles without needing to refuel.

During an inauguration ceremony on Thursday, Guard Chief Gen. Hossein Salami highlighted the warship's ability to operate "independently" at sea for up to a year. He emphasized that while Iran does not seek conflict, it will not succumb to threats. "Iran is not considered a threat to any country, but we do not bow before threat by any power," said Salami.

Adm. Ali Reza Tangsiri, chief of the Guard's navy, explained it took over two years to transform the commercial vessel into a military asset. The ship also includes a hospital and crew facilities such as a gym. Iran has been committed to enhancing its maritime presence since launching a military self-sufficiency initiative in 1992, which includes producing submarines, jet fighters, and tanks. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)