Iran Launches Light Submarines

The Iranian Navy has launched four home-built Ghadir Class advanced submarines to protect shipping vessels in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.

The Ghadir submarines are almost undetectable by sonar and are designed for coastal operations in shallow waters, especially in the Gulf.

The 120t lightweight submarine is capable of firing missiles and torpedoes simultaneously.

Iranian Defence Minister Ahmad Vahidi said the submarine was also capable of transporting troops, and could track battle ships on and under the surface of water.

"The mass production of this strategic vessel has been conduced to promote the defence capabilities of naval forces," he said.

The four submarines will join the Iranian navy fleet in the Gulf waters which include three Russian-built Kilo Class diesel submarines and a Nahang, an Iranian-built light submarine weighing 500t.