Iran unveils powerful aircraft carrier as US tensions rise
Iran has unveiled a modern aircraft carrier in Bandar Abbas, capable of transporting drones and helicopters, in response to threats from the United States.
Iran organised a demonstration of a modern aircraft carrier capable of transporting drones and helicopters on Thursday in the port city of Bandar Abbas. This vessel will enable Tehran to conduct military operations globally. Major General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, emphasised the significance of this investment.
The new Shahid Bakri aircraft carrier
The Shahid Bakri aircraft carrier was presented a day after a speech by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi. This was in response to threats from US President Donald Trump to increase pressure on Iran and stop oil exports. According to the Tasnim agency, which is linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the ship has a range of 40,700 kilometres (25,300 miles) and can sail for a year without refuelling.
The new aircraft carrier, dubbed the "drone carrier," can sail in a storm of force 9 on the Beaufort scale. It can carry up to 60 drones and has 30 rocket launchers. The Iranian Navy claims that the ship can accommodate 30 small assault boats and has eight permanent and four mobile hangars.
During the presentation, General Bagheri emphasised that Iran has the right to be present on the waters of the entire world by international law. "Just as foreigners enter Iran’s territorial waters, we will also operate in distant waters in accordance with international laws to ensure the security of Iran and maintain the complete safety of Iranian shipping routes," the general noted.
The unveiling of the new aircraft carrier responds to the growing tensions between Iran and the United States. Iran highlights its right to develop military capabilities and maintain a presence in international waters. "Development and progress on the coasts, islands, across the country, and at sea requires protection against the greed and threats of foreigners and enemies of this nation, and the armed forces bear this heavy responsibility," General Bagheri added, underscoring Iran's determination in the face of international challenges.
