Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) have unveiled their first dedicated drone carrier warship, a converted merchant vessel that can deploy multiple squadrons of unmanned aircraft and helicopters, the force's naval commander said on February 6.

The Shahid Bagheri vessel features a 180-metre flight deck and can operate in high seas for up to a year without refuelling, with an operational range of 22,000 nautical miles, Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri said at the commissioning ceremony in Bandar Abbas.

The launcher has a top speed of 22 knots, with an economical cruising speed of 18 knots.

"This ship can carry multiple squadrons of unmanned aircraft, launch and recover combat drones, and deploy various patrol and combat UAVs as well as military helicopters," Tangsiri said, adding that the vessel took two years to convert from a commercial ship.

The warship is equipped with extensive combat capabilities including short and medium-range air defence systems, cruise missiles, and electronic warfare systems. It can also deploy guided subsurface vessels and features a complete signals intelligence suite, according to Tangsiri.

Beyond its military capabilities, the vessel includes specialized medical facilities with an operating theatre, CCU, radiology and dental facilities. It also houses sports facilities including a multi-purpose gym, artificial turf field and fitness centre.

"This represents an important step in increasing Iran's defensive and deterrent power in distant waters and protecting national interests," Tangsiri said, noting the ship can operate in Force 9 conditions in oceanic waters.

The vessel includes dedicated fuelling stations for drones, boats and helicopters, along with surveillance equipment and a flight control tower. It marks the IRGC navy's fifteenth equipment induction ceremony and its largest project to date.

The commissioning advances Supreme Leader Khamenei's directive for developing a mobile naval force and the armed forces chief of staff's order to extend military power into deeper waters, Tangsiri added.