Iran Unveils 'Kian 700' Transporter to Haul Two Tanks

Iran showcased its new domestically-made “Kian 700” transporter that can drag two tanks weighing 60-tonnes each, at an overhaul and refurbishment center of the Iranian Army’s Ground Forces on Saturday.

The transporter is equipped with an 800 horse-power engine which can pull up to 200 tonnes, effectively allowing it to carry two 60-tonne tanks on its “Suleiman-3” semi-trailer. It is derived from Iran’s older “Kian 500” model.

“By refurbishing and upgrading its equipment, Iran will have access to advanced weaponry at relatively lower costs while avoiding dependency on foreign imports,” Major General Mohammad Baqeri, the Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, was quoted as saying by Press TV.

Also, during the event, chief commander of Iran's Army Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, said that Tehran’s indigenous Mersad air defense system shot down an unidentified drone that was reportedly violating Iran’s airspace near the port city of Mahshahr, on Friday.

The Mersad is said to be developed by reverse-engineering and upgrading the American MIM-23 Hawk system.