Mohajer-10 / Shahed-149 Gaza
Iran's heavy combat unmanned aerial vehicles representing the apex of Iranian drone development — long-endurance platforms capable of reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and precision strike missions. The Mohajer-10 features a 21-metre wingspan, maximum takeoff weight of 1,000 kg, endurance exceeding 24 hours, operational ceiling of 24,000 feet, and satellite datalink for beyond-line-of-sight operations. Armed with up to 300 kg of munitions including precision-guided bombs, Qaem electro-optical guided missiles, and potentially air-to-air missiles for counter-drone operations. The Shahed-149 Gaza is similarly configured but optimized for long-range strike missions. Both UAVs feature retractable landing gear, modern electro-optical/infrared turrets, synthetic aperture radar, and electronic intelligence gathering capability. These systems have been operationally deployed by Iran and exported to allied groups across the region. The platforms provide persistent surveillance and strike capability at a fraction of the cost of manned aircraft. Iran has supplied similar technology to Russia for use in Ukraine (Shahed-136 loitering munitions) and to regional allies.

- Fully indigenous production free from foreign supply chain constraints
- Long endurance enables persistent surveillance and strike over wide areas
- Combat-proven design lineage (Mohajer series deployed since Iran-Iraq War)
- Low operating cost compared to manned aircraft
- Export/transfer potential to proxy forces and allied states
- Performance significantly below MQ-9 Reaper class in speed, ceiling, and payload
- Limited sensor sophistication compared to Western/Israeli competitors
- Vulnerable to any modern air defense system; no survivability features
- Satellite communication capability limited; relies on line-of-sight for most operations
- Reliability and crash rates reportedly high compared to mature Western designs
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