Video / Launch of Cruise and Ballistic Missiles from IRGC Naval Vessel / Return After 57-Day Mission

According to Rokna, the Shahid Mahdavi naval group of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy entered the territorial waters of the Islamic Republic of Iran after participating in the BRICS naval exercise in South Africa, welcomed by the commander of the force. This long-term mission demonstrates the expansion of operational range, sustained presence in distant waters, and the enhancement of the force’s logistical and support capabilities.

The Shahid Mahdavi, weighing more than 2,100 tons, with a length of 240 meters and a width of 27 meters, is considered one of the country’s unique and strategic vessels. The vessel has been designed not only to fulfill combat roles but also to function as a floating naval base. It is equipped with various advanced radar systems, including a three-dimensional radar, advanced communication systems, and reconnaissance equipment, enabling broad monitoring and surveillance of the operational environment.

Equipped with Diverse Missile Systems

The Shahid Mahdavi is fitted with a variety of missile systems, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, as well as the Third Khordad air defense system. The vessel is also capable of carrying and launching cruise missiles with ranges between 300 and 750 kilometers, and in some cases up to approximately 1,000 kilometers, significantly increasing its operational strike range.

Another notable feature of this vessel is its capability to launch ballistic missiles from its deck, which was successfully tested for the first time during the Great Prophet 18 exercise. This development is considered a new phase in sea-based deterrence capability.

Capability to Carry Five Helicopters

The Shahid Mahdavi can carry a large number of reconnaissance and strike drones. Among them are the vertical take-off “Sepehr 7” drone with eight hours of flight endurance and an operational range of 200 kilometers, as well as loitering drones with ranges of up to 1,300 kilometers.

This drone combination enables reconnaissance operations, continuous monitoring, target acquisition, and precision strikes at long distances. In addition, the vessel can simultaneously carry five helicopters and is capable of supporting and transporting missile-launching boats. Such capacity turns it into a multi-role platform for supporting the IRGC Navy’s offensive fleet.

A Multi-Purpose Floating Base

In another of its missions, the vessel for the first time sailed close to Diego Garcia Island, a region hosting U.S. forces. This presence reflects the expansion of operational radius and demonstrates the capability for effective deployment in international waters and strategic oceanic regions.

The Shahid Mahdavi can be considered one of the most significant maritime achievements of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in recent years. The combination of cruise and ballistic missile capabilities, air defense systems, drone and aerial assets, radar systems, and the ability to carry combat vessels has transformed it into a multi-purpose floating base with deterrent, support, and offensive operational functions in distant waters.

The recent 57-day mission further demonstrated that the IRGC Navy is moving toward consolidating a sustained presence in international waters and enhancing its extra-regional operational power—an approach that plays a significant role in maritime security equations and regional deterrence.