Iran unveils new home-made strategic drone
The new drone, 'Fotros', is the biggest unmanned strategic plane in Iran that enjoys special capabilities. The drone, which has been built by the Defense Ministry's Air Industries, can fly for more than 2,000km non-stop, Iran’s Fars News Agency reported.
Fotros was unveiled in a ceremony attended by Defense Minister Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan in Tehran.
Iran has recently made giant advancements in aerospace industries, specially in designing and manufacturing pilotless drones.
In September 2012, Iran announced that it has started using UAVs for its air defense units as part of its broader plans for strengthening the country's air defense capability.
Speaking to reporters on the occasion of the National Day of Air Defense in Tehran on September 3, 2012, Commander of Khatam ol-Anbia Air Defense Base Brigadier General Farzad Esmayeeli said Iran has equipped its air defense units with Haazem drones. Haazem is a drone designed and manufactured by Iranian air defense experts in three short, mid and long range models and for air defense missions.
The drone can be used as a target for air defense systems and also for reconnaissance missions.
The UAV can also be equipped with missiles and used for aerial bombardments as well.