WANA (Feb 23) – The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy’s Shahid Mahdavi naval group has returned to Iran’s territorial waters after more than 57 consecutive days at sea, including participation in the BRICS naval exercise in South Africa. The flotilla was welcomed back by the commander of the force.

 

The extended deployment reflects the IRGC Navy’s expanded operational range, sustained presence in distant waters, and enhanced logistical and support capabilities.

 

A Strategic Vessel with Advanced Capabilities

The Shahid Mahdavi warship, weighing over 2,100 tons and measuring 240 meters in length and 27 meters in width, is regarded as one of Iran’s distinctive strategic vessels. In addition to its combat role, the ship is designed to function as a floating maritime base.

 

It is equipped with advanced radar systems, including a three-dimensional radar, sophisticated communications systems, and reconnaissance equipment that enable broad monitoring and surveillance of the operational environment.

Shahid Mahdavi: The IRGC’s Ballistic Missile–Launching Warship. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Shahid Mahdavi: The IRGC’s Ballistic Missile–Launching Warship. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Equipped with Diverse Missile Systems

Shahid Mahdavi is outfitted with various missile systems, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, as well as the Third of Khordad air defense system. The vessel is 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 expanding its operational strike range.

 

One of the ship’s most notable features is its ability to launch ballistic missiles from its deck—an ability successfully tested for the first time during the “Great Prophet 18” exercise. This development marks what officials describe as a new phase in Iran’s sea-based deterrence capability.

 

Drone and Helicopter Capacity

Shahid Mahdavi can carry a large number of reconnaissance and strike drones. These include the vertical takeoff “Sepehr 7” drone, with an endurance of eight hours and an operational range of 200 kilometers, as well as loitering munitions with ranges of up to 1,300 kilometers. This drone capability enables reconnaissance, continuous surveillance, 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, making it a multi-role platform for supporting the IRGC Navy’s offensive fleet.

Shahid Mahdavi: The IRGC’s Ballistic Missile–Launching Warship. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Shahid Mahdavi: The IRGC’s Ballistic Missile–Launching Warship. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Operations Near Diego Garcia

In a previous mission, the warship reportedly advanced for the first time to waters near Diego Garcia, an area hosting U.S. military forces. The deployment was described as demonstrating an expanded operational radius and the capability to maintain an effective presence in open and strategically significant ocean waters.

 

Shahid Mahdavi is considered one of the IRGC Navy’s most significant maritime achievements in recent years. Its combination of cruise and ballistic missile capabilities, air defense systems, drone and aviation capacity, advanced radar, and the ability to carry combat vessels has transformed it into a multi-purpose floating base with deterrent, support, and offensive functions in distant waters.

 

The recent 57-day mission underscores the IRGC Navy’s move toward establishing a sustained presence in international waters and enhancing its extra-regional operational capabilities—an approach seen as playing an important role in maritime security dynamics and regional deterrence.