Top general: Iran seeks ‘powerful’ presence in high seas to ensure security

Iran's top general says the Islamic Republic plans to continue its powerful presence in high seas in accordance with international regulations to ensure shipping security.

Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Baqeri made the remark during the launching ceremony of a new homegrown drone carrier – dubbed Shahid Bahman Bagheri – which joined the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps' (IRGC) naval fleet in the Persian Gulf on Thursday.

“Just like foreign naval ships that operate close to our territorial waters, citing international maritime law, we also reserve the right under international law to have presence in the international waters and right up to the edge of territorial waters of all coasts likewise,” he said.

He added that Iran’s plan to continue operating in high seas is aimed at ensuring the country’s security and preserving full security for Iranian shipping lines.

He emphasized that Iranian vessels like the recently launched Bahman Bagheri can ensure the security of the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Sea of Oman while maintaining sustainable security for shipping routes in a large part of the northern and western halves of the Indian Ocean.

The top Iranian commander hailed the country’s remarkable progress over the past 46 years despite all pressures, and reiterated that such capabilities pose no threat to the neighboring and regional countries.

Baqeri said that Iranian scientists and knowledge-based firms are currently capable of producing more than 90 percent of defense and militarily equipment, adding that the country needs no foreign help in this regard.

He stressed the importance of boosting the country’s power in order to safeguard national independence and sovereignty.

The top general said Iran, which enjoys an exceptional geographical position and has a great and brave nation, will certainly be able to “turn into a big power in the region and a prominent power at the global level.”

Iran's new drone carrier joins IRGC naval fleet in Persian Gulf

Iran’s new homegrown drone carrier has joined the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps

Elsewhere in his remarks, Baqeri said manufacturing drone carriers such as Shahid Bahman Bagheri is vital to establish sustainable defense and security in the country, boost deterrence power, prevent war and achieve a decisive victory in case of any imposed war.

"This vessel can establish security over a large surrounding area, defend itself and protect the interests of the Iranian nation, including shipping routes and the commercial and oil fleet,” he added.

Equipped with a 180-meter-long runway, the Shahid Bagheri carrier serves as a mobile naval platform for drone and helicopter missions in the oceans.

It is capable of carrying several squadrons of unmanned aircraft, using various types of patrol and combat drones, launching and retrieving light and fast combat vessels, and carrying different kinds of combat and support choppers.

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