Iran unveils new generation of VTOL drones to boost military reconnaissance
Homa, Dideban, and Shahin-1 showcased in Zahedan as Army accelerates indigenous drone development amid regional tensions
ZAHEDAN, Iran (MNTV) – Iran has unveiled three new Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) drones — Homa, Dideban, and Shahin-1 — developed for the Islamic Republic of Iran Army.
The move marks a significant step in advancing the country’s indigenous drone capabilities amid ongoing regional security tensions.
The new systems were displayed earlier this week at a drone and air base in southeastern Iran’s Zahedan.
Deputy Commander of the Iranian Army’s Ground Forces, Brigadier General Nozar Nemati, said the unveiling reflects the army’s strategic commitment to investing in advanced technologies such as drones, artificial intelligence, and unmanned platforms.
General Nemati emphasized that the Army’s Ground Forces have emerged as pioneers in integrating indigenous defense innovations for modern battlefield needs.
VTOL drones, which can lift off and land vertically without runways, are particularly valued in constrained or rugged environments like urban zones, mountains, or naval platforms.
Hybrid VTOL designs that combine rotor lift with fixed-wing flight extend range and endurance for reconnaissance, mapping, and delivery operations.
Among the unveiled systems, the Homa drone is a reconnaissance-focused hybrid VTOL platform capable of operating in electronic warfare conditions.
Initially developed in the mid-2010s, its latest version features a 5.54-meter wingspan, a 40 kg payload capacity, and up to 12 hours of flight time.
It supports naval missions with real-time intelligence in contested zones and incorporates anti-jamming and radar-evasion features.
The Dideban, meaning “Watchdog,” is a portable VTOL reconnaissance drone designed for precision targeting and group operations.
With a ceiling of 1,800 meters, it offers both day and night vision and can swarm in coordinated missions to cover multiple areas, enhancing tactical flexibility.
The Shahin-1 (Falcon-1) is an FPV kamikaze drone engineered for high-speed precision strikes. With real-time control and agility, it is optimized to neutralize fixed and mobile threats on future battlefields.
These advancements underscore Iran’s ongoing efforts to expand its drone capabilities despite international sanctions, aiming to bolster its asymmetric warfare posture.
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