Iran’s newly developed multi-role UAV carrier ship, Shahid Bagheri, was delivered to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy in a ceremony.
According to Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency, Shahid Bagheri is the first UAV carrier ship capable of operating in oceanic waters.
The IRGC-operated vessel is designed to carry multiple UAV squadrons alongside helicopters and cruise missiles. IRNA reported that the warship has missile launch systems and a 180-metre-long runway. The ship has an operational range of up to 22,000 nautical miles. The vessel is a converted commercial ship. IRGC Navy Commander Admiral Alireza Tangsiri stated that the ship’s conversion from a commercial vessel took over two years. The report also mentioned that the warship includes a hospital and recreational facilities for the crew.
Footage broadcast by Iranian state television showed at least four helicopters and three UAVs parked on the flight deck.
Since 1992, Iran has pursued a military self-sufficiency programme, claiming to manufacture its own submarines, fighter jets, and tanks. 
However, the released footage of Shahid Bagheri might spark debates. A small aircraft resembling an F-35, seen on the flight deck, appears impractical for any meaningful mission due to its limited size and payload capacity.
Additionally, a yellow air platform was observed in its final approach for landing. This two-seater gyrocopter, which features a rotor blade similar to a helicopter but requires constant forward motion to stay airborne, is known for its low speed and payload capacity. Given its limited altitude and speed capabilities, the system is unlikely to perform effectively in rough offshore weather conditions. 
Another concern is flight deck safety. In the footage, a helicopter preparing for takeoff had its rotor blades positioned hazardously close to the ship’s bridge next to it, posing a significant risk to both flight operations and personnel safety.
