Inspired by a Russian model. Still according to the Iranian publication, the unmanned aerial vehicle has some similarities with Russia’s Lancet — which has been seen in combat in Syria and Ukraine since it entered service in 2020. Despite this, according to Forbes, There is no indication that the Russians have supplied any of their drones to Iran.
Considering its inspiration from the Lancet, Iran’s new “suicide drone” would have a flight range of 30 to 60 minutes. Weapon must also carry a payload of 3 to 6 kg within a range of 40 kilometers.
Weapon is equipped with electro-optical systems and a warhead. Widely used in counter-ambush operations, these drones lie in wait until a target is located. Because they are considered small, they can be transported by ground troops and can also be used in several other types of operations.
The model is not the only suicide drone in the country: Iran also has the Shahed 131 and the Shahed 136. The Shahed 136 was even used by Iran in the attack on Israel. The “suicide drone” model was developed by Iran’s Shahed Aviation Industries, weighs 200 kg and can carry up to 40 kg of warheads in the nose section. Furthermore, it can be assembled and launched from a military or commercial truck. The ammunition was designed to attack ground targets from a distance.
Iran has the 14th largest military force in the world, according to a survey by Global Fire Power — an international website that measures military forces and creates a ranking annually. The 2024 list is based on more than 60 factors and has 145 countries.
