New Iranian warship could reshape power in the Persian Gulf

• Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) unveiled its first drone-carrier warship, the Shahid Bagheri, expanding the country’s naval capabilities. The vessel was launched at the Persian Gulf port of Bandar Abbas, showcasing Iran’s growing military presence.
• The warship can carry drones, helicopters and cruise missiles, enabling extended operations in international waters and enhancing Iran’s defensive and deterrent capabilities.
• The move comes amid heightened tensions with the US, as President Trump reinstates his “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, prompting concerns about regional military and strategic calculations.

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Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has introduced its first drone-carrier warship, the “Shahid Bagheri,” marking a significant expansion of the country’s naval capabilities. The vessel was unveiled in a ceremony at the Persian Gulf port of Bandar Abbas, according to state media.

Why does Iran’s new ship matter?

Iran’s development of a drone-capable warship signals its intent to extend its naval presence beyond regional waters. The ability to launch drones, helicopters and cruise missiles from a mobile platform could impact military and strategic calculations in the Persian Gulf and beyond.

The move also comes amid heightened tensions with the United States, as President Donald Trump reinstates his “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran.

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What are Iran’s military leaders saying?

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC navy, stated that the Shahid Bagheri would enhance Iran’s “defensive and deterrent capabilities in distant waters.” General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, chief of staff of the Iranian armed forces, added that the warship would help ensure Iran’s “decisive victory” should conflict arise.

Iran has long pursued military self-sufficiency, manufacturing its own submarines, fighter jets, and missile systems. The addition of the Shahid Bagheri aligns with this strategy and further expands the IRGC’s ability to project force.

What are the ship’s capabilities?

The Shahid Bagheri is a converted commercial vessel, equipped with a 180-meter runway to accommodate drone operations. According to state-run Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), the warship can carry multiple squadrons of drones, helicopters, and cruise missiles. It is reportedly capable of traveling up to 22,000 nautical miles without refueling, allowing for extended operations in international waters.

Footage broadcast by Iranian state TV during the launch ceremony showed at least four helicopters and three drones on the ship’s deck.

How does this relate to U.S. policy?

The unveiling of the warship comes as Trump escalates his pressure campaign on Iran. Trump recently signed an executive order reimposing sanctions on Tehran, warning that Iran would face “obliteration” if it attempted an assassination against him.

Despite this hardline stance, Trump has also suggested a willingness to negotiate a new nuclear deal.

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How has Iran responded?

Iranian officials pushed back against U.S. pressure, saying that they do not seek war but will not submit to foreign demands. General Hossein Salami, chief of the IRGC, declared that “we do not bow before threat by any power.”

The Iranian government also dismissed concerns about its expanding military capabilities, arguing that its actions are defensive in nature.

What happens next?

The launch of the Shahid Bagheri coincides with a series of Iranian military exercises, including air defense drills near nuclear sites. The United States and its allies are closely monitoring these developments as Iran continues its push for greater military self-sufficiency.