Iran has unveiled its first signals intelligence vessel, the Zagros, designed for advanced electronic surveillance and cyber intelligence. The domestically constructed ship is equipped with state-of-the-art sensors to enhance intelligence gathering and maritime monitoring.
Admiral Shahram Irani says the Zagros will play a critical role in securing Iran’s maritime interests, calling it the navy’s “watchful eye” across global waters.
Iran unveils Zagros (313), its first domestically built advanced reconnaissance vessel pic.twitter.com/u9N4h0wW2R
— Iran Military (@IRIran_Military) January 15, 2025
The launch of Zagros coincides with heightened military activity in Iran. The country recently initiated two-month-long military exercises, including war games defending critical nuclear facilities, like Natanz, against simulated missile and drone attacks.
These drills involve both the Iranian army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and are scheduled to run through mid-March. Mohammad Eslami, the director of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, announced additional exercises focusing on passive defense and operational readiness.
Iran is also bolstering its arsenal, recently delivering 1,000 drones to its army. In October, officials announced plans to increase the military budget by 200%, citing escalating regional threats. The Zagros is part of Iran’s broader strategy to modernize its navy using domestically developed technologies. The country plans to establish its largest military hub in Jask, near the Gulf of Oman, equipped with advanced dock posts and facilities.
The Zagros enters service amid increased international scrutiny of Iran’s nuclear program. The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that Iran’s uranium enrichment levels have reached 60%, nearing weapons-grade. Tehran insists its nuclear activities are peaceful, a claim met with skepticism.
Relations with the United States remain strained following the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement, reimposed sanctions and regional disputes involving Iranian proxies and maritime security.
