Iran has unveiled its first aircraft carrier, the IRGC Shahed BAGI, marking a significant leap in its naval capabilities and raising alarms across the region. Released by state media, the first images and videos of the vessel reveal a formidable warship designed for drone operations, featuring an angled flight deck and a ski jump launch system reminiscent of advanced Russian and British carriers.

Constructed from a converted commercial container ship, the Shahed BAGI stands 240 meters long and 21 meters high, equipped to launch up to 60 drones alongside helicopters and missiles. This innovative approach allows Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps to enhance its power projection capabilities on a tight budget, but it comes with limitations in combat resilience compared to traditional aircraft carriers.

The implications of this development are profound. With advanced stealth drones capable of evading enemy defenses, Iran could launch surprise attacks from its new carrier, extending its reach across the Middle East. The Shahed BAGI could provide critical support to allies like Syria and Sudan, potentially reshaping the balance of power in the region.

However, the carrier’s lack of modern surface combat ships leaves it vulnerable to air and missile strikes from adversaries like the United States and Israel, who rely on destroyers to protect their fleets. Despite these vulnerabilities, the strategic use of drone operations could bolster Iran’s influence, particularly against non-state actors.

As the Revolutionary Guard Corps prepares to deploy this new asset, the world watches closely. The Shahed BAGI is not just a vessel; it signifies Iran’s ambition to expand its naval prowess and assert its presence in a volatile geopolitical landscape. This development could redefine military engagements in the region, prompting urgent responses from neighboring nations and global powers alike.