Iran asserts that it has achieved a significant milestone by developing an unmanned iteration of the Qaher-313 stealth fighter.

Having made remarkable strides in missile and UAV technology, Tehran is poised to showcase its accomplishments in the realm of larger aircraft.

Iran’s defense industry is on the cusp of a momentous leap with its latest creation: an unmanned variant of the Qaher-313 stealth fighter. This cutting-edge UAV has reached the final stages of development and is slated for an unveiling in the upcoming months.

In the past, Iran’s defense industry primarily focused on refurbishing and modernizing Western and Soviet-made fighter jets already in its possession. However, bolstered by its enhanced capabilities in aircraft and engine manufacturing, the nation is now embarking on the production of combat aircraft, encompassing both manned and unmanned platforms.

The Qaher-313 fighter marked the initial foray into this new direction. Details about its development were disclosed in 2013, with plans in 2017 to initiate flight tests; however, subsequent reports on this matter were scarce. In February 2023, a statement was released indicating the project’s technological maturation and the intention to repurpose the aircraft into a drone, with deliveries projected to commence by mid-2024.

According to Iranian sources, the Qaher-313 boasts an exceptionally low radar signature and demonstrates the capability to operate at low altitudes. It is designed to accommodate a payload of two-tonne bombs or guided missiles, including 6 PL-12s. Western analysts posit that refined versions of the General Electric J85 turbojet engine could serve as the UAV’s power plant. As Iran advances along this trajectory of innovation, global defense observers are keenly monitoring its progress.