The Shahed-149, modeled to rival the U.S. MQ-9 Reaper in both design and functionality, is an upgraded version of Iran’s earlier Shahed-129 drone.
In a significant move challenging the United States’ military dominance, Iran has made its most advanced unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), the Shahed-149 “Gaza,” operational. With a striking range of up to 4,000 kilometers, this drone has been integrated into the Aerospace Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). According to the Defense Mirror report, the high-altitude, long-endurance drone demonstrated its capabilities during the “Great Prophet” military exercise, where it successfully targeted multiple objectives with precision.
Introduced in 2021 and delivered to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force in 2022, the Shahed-149 “Gaza” is Iran’s most advanced unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV). With a wingspan of 21 meters, it can carry a payload of up to 500 kilograms, including precision-guided Sadid glide bombs. Designed for extended missions, the drone has a cruising speed of 215 km/h and an impressive 25-hour flight endurance. Capable of operating at altitudes as high as 35,000 feet, the Shahed-149 is built for long-range strikes.
According to the media reports, the Shahed-149 boasts cutting-edge avionics systems, featuring electro-optical and infrared sensors, a laser rangefinder, and a satellite communication antenna. It is capable of performing surveillance over a 500-kilometer radius and detecting stealth aircraft with precision.
The Shahed-149, modeled to rival the U.S. MQ-9 Reaper in both design and functionality, is an upgraded version of Iran’s earlier Shahed-129 drone. It features enhanced payload capacity and extended range, powered by a 750-horsepower turboprop engine capable of reaching a top speed of 350 km/h.
The Shahed-149’s impressive 4,000-kilometer range and advanced capabilities make it a crucial component of Iran’s military strategy. As a key asset for the IRGC, it empowers them to execute long-range missions with precision and efficiency.
Iran, known for its advanced drone technology, has developed a new attack drone, the “Shahed-107,” for Russia, a close ally of India. This drone is expected to significantly enhance Russia’s military strength in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. According to a Sky News report, Iran has already delivered several units of the Shahed-107 to Russia, with their total value estimated to exceed $2 million.
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