“Kurdistan” Floating Base and “Sahand” Destroyer Added to Iran’s Naval Forces

WANA (Nov 29) – The Islamic Republic of Iran’s Army has officially commissioned the naval floating base of Iran “Kurdistan” and unveiled the restored destroyer Sahand following a ceremony attended by senior military officials.

In an event held with the presence of Major General Amir Hatami, Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army, and Rear Admiral Irani, Commander of the Army Navy (NEDAJA), the floating naval base Kurdistan was formally added to the fleet.

The ceremony also featured the unveiling of the destroyer Sahand, a new missile-armed fast attack craft, multi-purpose unmanned aerial units, intelligent unmanned underwater vehicles, and new shore- and sea-based electronic warfare, missile, and intelligence systems.

During the ceremony, Major General Amir Hatami, Commander-in-Chief of Iran’s Army, said, “Peace, stability, and security in the strategic and important region of the Strait of Hormuz are very important for all countries in the region and for our country, and we are the guardians and guarantors of this peace and security.”

Adding the Kurdistan Floating Base to the Iranian Army Navy fleet ceremony. Social media/ WANA News Agency

He further stated,” We and the nations of the region have lived in this region for many years, and we will continue to live there. Those who do not belong to this region do not belong here and must leave. ”

According to officials, these additions aim to enhance Iran’s naval combat capabilities, demonstrate domestic technological achievements, expand weapons development in line with emerging threats, foster innovation in naval design, and strengthen the Navy’s strategic reach and presence in international waters.

It is worth noting that the Sahand destroyer, the third vessel of the Mowj class, unexpectedly suffered an accident and sank at the Bandar Abbas pier on July 6, 2024, causing concern among the public and naval personnel. But the sailors of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Navy, through 14 days of continuous technical and rescue operations, succeeded in bringing the destroyer back to the surface.

This event was completed under circumstances where many domestic and foreign specialists believed there was no chance of reviving Sahand. However, through the determination and efforts of NEDAJA’s sailors, this achievement—described as the first of its kind at this level and unprecedented in the world—was accomplished, and Sahand will once again be powerfully present on the seas.

Adding the Kurdistan Floating Base to the Iranian Army Navy fleet ceremony. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Additionally, the floating base “Kurdistan” is in fact a port city that can carry out important tasks in supporting both naval and non-naval combat units at sea.

According to Admiral Irani, the “Kurdistan” floating base is a fully strategic, high-capacity offshore platform designed to operate deep in the oceans, with its primary mission focused on combat support and escort operations.

Outlining the capabilities of the Kurdistan floating base, the Commander of the Army Navy emphasized its role in broad-spectrum combat support. The platform, he said, can meet a wide range of operational needs, including logistical support, medical services, communications, helicopter operations, underwater and diving missions, rapid emergency response, and the delivery of food, fuel, and medicine.

Kurdistan Floating Base. Social media/ WANA News Agency