Iran Unveils Mohajer-10 Armed Drone with Potential Reach to Israel
Last Updated on March 7, 2024 6:44 am
Tehran, Iran – Iran’s defense ministry proudly showcased the Mohajer-10 drone on Defense Industry Day, drawing attention to its striking resemblance to the American MQ-9 Reaper. The drone, touted to have an impressive 24-hour flight capability, raised eyebrows with claims that it could potentially reach Israel, a longtime regional adversary.
Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency provided a glimpse of the Mohajer-10, featuring prominently at the conference, with a smoke-machine fog adding an air of theatricality. The drone, part of Iran’s longstanding Mohajer drone line dating back to 1985, reportedly boasts a cruising altitude of 24,000 feet, a speed of 210 kph (130 mph), and a payload capacity of up to 300 kilograms (660 pounds) for bombs. Additionally, it is said to be equipped for electronic surveillance and camera operations.
President Ebrahim Raisi, a staunch ally of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, took a firsthand look at the drone during the unveiling. In remarks broadcasted on state television, Raisi emphasized Iran’s technological prowess and commitment to friendly relations with nations globally. He warned against any attempts to invade Iran, pledging that the armed forces would respond decisively.
While the Associated Press could not independently verify the drone’s capabilities, state television shared a video depicting its takeoff from a runway. Israel, a country with its own fleet of long-range drones, has yet to respond to the developments.
Iran’s history includes capturing U.S. drones in the past, but there is no evidence that it has acquired a General Atomics’ Reaper, a “hunter-killer” drone used by the U.S. Air Force. In 2019, Iran shot down a U.S. Navy RQ-4A Global Hawk amid heightened tensions over the collapsed nuclear deal.
The Mohajer-10’s unveiling comes alongside Iran’s announcement of providing two ballistic missiles, one named after the late Qassem Soleimani, to its army and the Revolutionary Guard. The Reaper drone has a significant connection to Iran, reportedly being involved in the 2020 strike in Baghdad that targeted Soleimani, a prominent Iranian general.
Iran has consistently introduced a range of drones, asserting their long-endurance capabilities. Notably, Iranian drones have played a controversial role in Russia’s war on Ukraine, with Tehran providing contradictory explanations about their supply to Moscow. In June, the White House claimed Iran was assisting Russia in establishing a drone manufacturing plant near Moscow, solidifying their strategic partnership in weaponry supply.