Iran's New Drone Carrier Spotted in Persian Gulf During Sea Trials

The Shahid Bagheri, a converted container ship, is part of Iran's growing fleet of drone-launching naval vessels, raising regional security concerns.

Satellite images confirm the Shahid Bagheri, Iran's newly converted drone carrier, is conducting sea trials near Bandar Abbas in the Persian Gulf.
The vessel, originally a commercial container ship, has been outfitted with a ski-jump ramp and angled flight deck for drone operations.
Two additional modified Iranian naval vessels, the Shahid Mahdavi and Shahid Roudaki, were also spotted near the Shahid Bagheri, forming a drone carrier fleet.
U.S. officials have denied claims that an Iranian 'mothership' is responsible for recent drone sightings over New Jersey, citing lack of evidence.
Iran's drone capabilities have been linked to regional conflicts and international incidents, with its drones reportedly used by allies in the Middle East and by Russia in Ukraine.