Iran Markets Its Advanced Long-Endurance Drone: Shahed-149 'Gaza'

On September 29, 2025, Iranian media reported that Iran has started actively promoting its most advanced long-endurance combat drone, the Shahed-149 “Gaza”, at defense exhibitions around the world. This move signals a notable shift in Tehran’s military export strategy, positioning the drone not merely as a regional deterrent but as a serious contender in the global UAV market. Now in confirmed operational service and with international promotion underway, the Gaza UCAV marks a change in Iran’s defense approach, transitioning from limited domestic production to active international marketing. Footage from a prominent Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) exercise shows the drone carrying out a precision-guided strike, demonstrating its capabilities and emphasizing Tehran’s efforts to attract foreign buyers. The drone has also been showcased at recent exhibitions in Central Asia and North Africa, where Iranian officials reportedly engaged with potential state and non-state clients seeking alternatives to Western and Chinese drones.

Overview of the Shahed-149 'Gaza'

Unveiled on May 21, 2021, the Shahed-149 'Gaza' is a high-altitude, long-endurance UAV developed by Iran's Shahed Aviation Industries. It is named in honor of the Palestinian struggle against Israeli occupation and was delivered to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force in 2022.

Technical Specifications

• Wingspan: 22 meters

• Length: Approximately 8 meters

• Height: 3.1 meters

• Maximum Takeoff Weight: 3,100 kg

• Endurance: Up to 35 hours

• Maximum Speed: 350 km/h

• Operational Range: Up to 4,000 km

• Payload Capacity: 500 kg

• Armament: Up to 13 precision-guided bombs or missiles

• Powerplant: 750-horsepower turboprop engine

The Shahed-149 is Iran's first UAV powered by a turboprop engine, marking a major advancement in its drone technology. It is equipped with advanced radar and navigation systems, reportedly using Chinese or Russian technology to avoid reliance on GPS systems.

Comparison with the MQ-9 Reaper

The Shahed-149 'Gaza' shares several similarities with the U.S. MQ-9 Reaper, both in design and function.

While the Shahed-149 has a longer operational range and endurance, the MQ-9 Reaper has a higher payload capacity and speed. Both drones are designed for multi-role missions, including intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and precision strikes.

The development and international showcasing of the Shahed-149 'Gaza' underscore Iran's growing capabilities in unmanned aerial systems. By participating in global defense exhibitions, Iran aims to position itself as a significant player in the UAV market, potentially attracting interest from countries seeking advanced drone technology. The Shahed-149's capabilities make it a formidable asset for long-endurance surveillance and precision strikes, significantly enhancing Iran's strategic reach and influence in the region. Video coverage and analyses of the Shahed-149 provide further insights into its operational capabilities and testing, demonstrating its potential in both reconnaissance and combat roles. Representing a major advancement in Iran's drone technology, the Shahed-149 combines extended endurance, long operational range, and versatile payload capabilities. While it draws comparisons to the MQ-9 Reaper, it introduces unique features that enhance its strategic value, and its international debut signals Iran's clear intent to assert its presence in the global UAV market.