Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Showcase AI-Equipped Missiles in Gulf Military Drills – SOFREP News Team

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), in a bold demonstration of military prowess, conducted extensive naval exercises in the Persian Gulf, showcasing cutting-edge weaponry integrated with artificial intelligence (AI).

The drills, part of the “Prophet Muhammad” naval exercise held on January 26, 2025, highlighted the evolving capabilities of Iran’s armed forces and sent a clear strategic message to both regional neighbors and global powers.

Advanced Drones and Precision Missiles Take Center Stage

Central to the exercise was the deployment of Mohajer-6 and Ababil-5 drones, both equipped with precision-guided Ghaem and Almas missiles enhanced by AI technology.

These drones successfully targeted simulated enemy threats, underscoring their versatility and lethality in modern combat scenarios.

The Mohajer-6, operational since 2018, serves as an ISTAR (intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance) platform with a 10-meter wingspan and a 12-hour flight endurance.

Capable of carrying up to 100 kilograms of payload, it integrates advanced navigation systems, electro-optical imaging, and laser rangefinders. This versatility enables the Mohajer-6 to excel in reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and strike missions, deploying both Qaem and Almas missiles with precision.

The Ababil-5, introduced in 2022, represents the most advanced model of the Ababil drone series. Powered by a Rotax-914 engine, it boasts a range of 480 kilometers and a ceiling of 5,500 meters. It can carry up to four Almas anti-tank missiles or six Qaem precision-guided bombs, making it a formidable multirole drone for reconnaissance and strike missions.

The Qaem missile, available in air-to-ground and surface-to-air configurations, utilizes laser or infrared guidance for precise targeting against low-altitude drones, helicopters, or ground objectives.

Meanwhile, the Almas missile is designed for top-attack trajectories, capable of penetrating light armored vehicles with a range of up to 10 kilometers.

Strategic Location and Comprehensive Operations

The drills spanned three key maritime regions in the Persian Gulf, focusing on defending vital infrastructure in Iran’s Bushehr and Khuzestan provinces, home to major oil, petrochemical, and nuclear facilities.

These exercises simulated protecting sensitive locations through a range of operations, including ballistic and cruise missile launches, amphibious maneuvers, and air defense simulations.

One notable milestone was the debut of the domestically produced Shahid Soleimani vessel, which launched the Navvab air defense missile for the first time.

This integration of advanced air defense systems reflects Iran’s commitment to achieving military self-sufficiency and modernizing its naval fleet.

Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Military Systems

The integration of AI technology into Iran’s missile systems marks a significant leap forward in its military capabilities.

According to Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, AI enhancements in the Ghaem and Almas missiles have significantly improved their precision and operational effectiveness. This advancement positions Iran to better address modern combat challenges and respond to regional threats.

AI integration is part of a broader effort emphasized by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, who has urged Iranian authorities to “master artificial intelligence” as a strategic priority. This focus aligns with Iran’s decades-long push to develop indigenous military technologies, especially following the 1979 revolution and the severance of ties with the United States.

Expanding Capabilities in the Face of Global Tensions

The “Prophet Muhammad” drills come at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions.

Iran’s enhanced military capabilities, particularly in the realm of precision-guided weapons and drones, send a strong message to its adversaries, including the United States and its regional allies like Israel.

The exercise’s focus on defending territorial waters and critical infrastructure underscores Iran’s resolve to maintain control over the strategically vital Persian Gulf.

The drills also coincided with recent remarks by US President Donald Trump, who called for a potential deal with Tehran while emphasizing the need to avoid strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. This duality of diplomacy and deterrence underscores the complexity of relations between Iran and the West.

A Dual Message of Readiness and Stability

IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami highlighted the primary objective of the drills as enhancing the operational readiness of Iran’s naval forces.

He also framed the exercises as a message of stability to neighboring countries, emphasizing Iran’s ability to address potential threats while advocating for peace in the region.

Despite the controversial nature of Iran’s military advancements, the “Prophet Muhammad” exercises showcase a nation determined to assert its strategic independence and technological innovation.

As the Gulf remains a focal point of global security concerns, Iran’s evolving military capabilities will undoubtedly shape the region’s future dynamics.