At the Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2024) from 4 to 6 March, Iran made a notable appearance showcasing an extensive range of sophisticated weaponry, naval systems, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) models. Among the displayed technologies was the recently unveiled “Gaza” drone, a medium-altitude, low-endurance (MALE) UAV, which was initially introduced in 2021. The Gaza drone is equipped with satellite communication capabilities and the capacity to fly with a 500-kilogram payload, at a maximum flight altitude of 35,000 feet. It can also be fitted with an airborne synthetic aperture radar for detecting surface and underwater targets.
Iran’s naval capabilities were also on display, featuring a 20mm naval machine gun and a 12.7mm four-barrel gun system. These systems, developed and manufactured by Iran, are available for export to any country except Israel and the United States. Furthermore, Iran demonstrated its Sevvom Khordad medium-range air defence system, which reportedly successfully shot down an American MQ-4C Triton in 2019.
While no actual naval vessels were displayed, mock-ups of various ships were dispalyed, including a 94-meter frigate vessel capable of operating helicopters. The Iranian Ministry of Defense introduced the CM-35A anti-ship missile, along with an airborne version, at the event. For the first time, Iran advertised a range of ballistic missiles in its brochures, including the AD-200, BM-250, BM-125, and BM-300. A land-based early warning system, SL-ASR3, connected to a C4I command and control system, also attracted attention at the exhibition. Additionally, Iranian-built Kalashnikov AK-47 rifles and machine guns were displayed at the Iranian stand. In total, eight Iranian entities affiliated with the Ministry of Defense showcased their systems in Doha. The event also had a delegation of the Taliban from Afghanistan familiarising with international arms on sale.
Punit Shyam Gore
