A staraboard quarter view of the Iranian Navy’s second Russian-built Kilo class diesel-powered attack submarine en route to Iran.
On November 27, Rear Admiral Shahram Irani, commander of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy, announced that the construction of a new heavy attack submarine of the Besat-class will began soon.
Speaking at a press conference, Rear Admiral Irani said the Iranian Navy is currently in the process of designing the submarine.
“We will produce all kinds of maritime equipment and construction operation of Besat heavy submarine will start soon,” the commander said.
Iran is reportedly planning to build two Besat-class submarines. The construction of the first one was supposed to begin in 2020. However, it was delayed. Submarines of this class will supposedly be equipped with an air-independent propulsion system.
While some Iranian sources claim that a standard Besat-class submarine will have a displacement of 3,200 tons, others put the displacement at a more reasonable 1,200 tons.
The Iranian Navy will reportedly arm Besat-class attack submarines with heavy torpedoes as well as anti-ship cruise missiles.
Currently, the Iranian Navy operates three Russian-made Kilo-class diesel-electric attack submarines, a locally-made Fateh-class semi-heavy diesel-electric attack submarine and more than a dozen locally-made Ghadir-class midget submarines.
Iran have been developing its naval capabilities in response to the never ending threat by the US and its Middle Eastern allies, mainly Israel.
