The Shahed-136B: Iran’s new drone raising fears of swarm attacks against the U.S.
With U.S. and Israeli strikes raising tensions, Iran’s new Shahed-136B drone is emerging as a key concern in potential swarm attacks.
A joint strike by Israel and the United States targeted Iran on Saturday, February 28, with explosions reported in Tehran and other cities across the country.
Iran responded by launching attacks on U.S. bases in the Persian Gulf, escalating tensions in a region already on edge.
The Shahed-136B drone now drawing attention
One of the drones in Iran’s military arsenal is the Shahed-136, a family of so called kamikaze drones that includes the newer Shahed-136B, an upgraded version of the original model.
Unlike the earlier variant, the Shahed-136B is believed to have a range of roughly 1,550 to 2,485 miles. It can also carry larger explosive warheads, increasing its destructive capability.
The design has changed as well, with a more aerodynamic structure. The drone replaces the earlier piston engine and propeller with a more powerful motor. Analysts estimate these unmanned aircraft can fly at lower altitudes, making them harder to detect on radar.
As a result, the updated model is thought to include improved stealth features against enemy sensors.
A new addition to Iran’s arsenal
The drone was unveiled during a military parade in Tehran in 2024, part of Iran’s broader effort to modernize its armed forces.
So far, Iran has not used the Shahed-136B in combat. That contrasts with the original Shahed-136, which entered service in 2022 and has already been deployed in conflicts.
Iran’s position among global military powers
In global rankings of military strength, Iran sits at No. 16, according to the organization Global Firepower. Israel ranks one place higher at No. 15.
Much of Iran’s military capability comes from an arsenal it has expanded in recent years, even while navigating Western sanctions and embargoes.
Over time, advances in technology have made missiles one of the country’s most important weapons of war. In that area, analysts widely consider Iran among the world’s leading powers.
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