TEHRAN – The Shahid Mahdavi, an Iranian warship equipped with both long-range ballistic and cruise missiles, has achieved a significant maritime milestone by crossing the Equator during its latest mission, officially entering the southern hemisphere.

The Iranian media confirmed this pivotal transition of the naval vessel on Saturday, highlighting its role as a prominent asset of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps Navy.

Commissioned into the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps Navy in March 2023, the Shahid Mahdavi boasts formidable dimensions, weighing over 2100 tonnes, with an impressive length of 240 meters and a width of 27 meters. 

This multipurpose warship is designed for long-range operations and is outfitted with missiles, air defense systems, and advanced radar technology.

Equipped with a three-dimensional phased array radar, sea-to-sea and sea-to-air missiles, and sophisticated telecommunication systems for electronic warfare, the Shahid Mahdavi warship possesses a versatile capability, including the capacity to carry various types of attack helicopters, combat drones, and fast attack craft.

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps Navy, emphasized the vessel's armament, highlighting the inclusion of 2000-kilometer-range cruise missiles "Qadr 474."

Reflecting on the evolution of responsibilities within the Iranian military establishment, Rear Admiral Tangsiri noted a pivot towards an augmented presence in oceanic waters. This strategic shift has seen vessels such as the Shahid Mahdavi, Rudaki, and Baqeri assuming pivotal roles alongside traditional responsibilities in securing the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.

Emphasizing the primary objective in oceans, Rear Admiral Tangsiri reiterated the IRGC Navy's steadfast commitment to safeguarding maritime sovereignty and ensuring the integrity of vital shipping lanes.

The vessel gained global attention in February 2024 when official reports confirmed the launch of ballistic missiles, meticulously fired from within containers, each boasting an approximate range of 1,700 kilometers (1,050 miles).

IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami had previously announced that the missile carrier warships extended the IRGC’s range of influence and naval power up to any desired spot in the world.

“Our oceangoing warships can be present in every location across the world, and when we can fire missiles from them, there is accordingly no safe spot for anyone intending to create insecurity for us,” the IRGC chief stated.

In recent years, Iranian military specialists and engineers have achieved notable advancements in producing a diverse array of domestically developed equipment, fostering self-reliance within the armed forces.

Officials from Iran affirm their commitment to enhancing the nation's military capabilities, particularly in missile technology, emphasizing their defensive nature.

Iran unequivocally states that negotiations will not affect its defense capabilities. Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, consistently emphasizes the importance of maintaining and enhancing Iran's defense capabilities.