Iran's 4000 Km Range Attack Drone, Shahed-149 Operationalized

Iran has operationalized the Shahed-149 'Gaza' unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), a high-altitude, long-endurance drone capable of striking targets up to 4,000 kilometers away.

The Shahed-149, introduced in 2021 and delivered to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force in 2022, features a wingspan of 21 meters and can carry 500 kilograms of payload, including precision-guided Sadid glide bombs. With a cruising speed of 215 km/h and a flight endurance of 25 hours, it is designed for long-range operations at altitudes up to 35,000 feet.

During the 'Great Prophet' military exercise, the Shahed-149 demonstrated its capability by engaging multiple targets. Images circulated online show the drone equipped with eight guided bombs.

This drone includes an avionics suite with electro-optical and infrared sensors, a laser rangefinder, and a satellite communication antenna. It can reportedly detect stealth aircraft and monitor environments within a 500-kilometer radius.

Comparable to the U.S. MQ-9 Reaper in design and function, the Shahed-149 represents a development from Iran's earlier Shahed-129 model, with an increased payload and range. It is powered by a 750-horsepower turboprop engine, achieving a maximum speed of 350 km/h.