Breaking Boundaries: Iran’s IRGC Navy Ship Crosses Equator Into Southern Hemisphere
The Shahid Mahdavi, a cutting-edge oceangoing warship managed by Iran’s IRGC Navy, has reached a significant milestone by crossing the Equator into the Southern Hemisphere.
This multipurpose vessel, specifically designed for long-range operations, made the historic move on Friday as Iran’s naval forces expand their presence in international waters. The 2,100-tonne, 240-meter-long, and 27-meter-wide ship joined the IRGC’s naval fleet in March 2023.
Equipped with advanced technology like a three-dimensional phased array radar, sea-to-sea and sea-to-air missiles, and cutting-edge telecommunication systems for electronic warfare, the Shahid Mahdavi is a force to be reckoned with.
Capable of carrying attack helicopters, combat drones, and fast attack craft, this warship showcases Iran’s prowess in naval defense. In February 2024, the IRGC Navy even launched two ballistic missiles from containers on board the vessel, demonstrating its strength.
Iran’s dedication to self-sufficiency and innovation in military technology has been evident in recent years, with the country’s engineers making significant strides in producing indigenous equipment.
Leaders in Iran have reiterated the nation’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities, including missile power, as a means of safeguarding its sovereignty. Defense remains a crucial aspect of Iran’s national security strategy, non-negotiable in the eyes of the Islamic Republic.