Mohajer-10 Emerges: Is Iran Closing Drone Gap With The US?

Iran has displayed its domestically developed long-range attack drone, the Mohajer-10, at a defense exhibition in Russia. According to IRNA, Iran's official news agency, the Mohajer-10 drone is featured at the ARMY 2024 International Military-Technical Forum in Patriot Park, near Moscow. 

This marks the first time the Mohajer-10 has been publicly shown outside of Iran. The country describes this drone as an advanced long-range unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). In addition to the Mohajer-10, Iran is also showcasing its homemade air defense systems, radars, and ballistic missiles at the three-day event, which runs until August 14.

Iran's Mohajer-10 drone

According to a report from Mehr News Agency, the Mohajer-10 drone, also known as Immigrant-10, has an operational range of 1,240 miles (2,000 kilometers) and can stay in the air for up to 24 hours. 

It was first revealed in August 2023 during an event attended by the then-Iranian president and defense minister. Its full name is Qods Mohajer-10.

This drone can carry payloads of up to 661 pounds (300 kilograms), which is double the capacity of the earlier Mohajer-6 model. 

It has a fuel capacity of 450 liters. Its top speed is 210 km/h, and it can fly as high as 7 kilometers (about 23,000 feet).

The exact dimensions of the drone haven't been shared, but based on available photos and comparisons with similar models, it is estimated to be about 8 meters long, with a wingspan of around 16 meters and a height of about 3 meters.

The Mohajer-10 is designed for various purposes, including reconnaissance, target acquisition, intelligence gathering, and attacks. It can drop bombs or missiles on specific targets before returning to its base.

Unlike the well-known Iranian-made Shahed drones, the Mohajer-10 is not a kamikaze or suicide drone. However, its effectiveness and potential for causing damage are still unclear. 

Comparing Drones: Reaper vs. Mohajer-10

Interestingly, the Mohajer-10 looks quite similar to the MQ-9 Reaper drone used by the United States, which is known for its advanced capabilities.

The MQ-9 Reaper is produced by General Atomics and is used by the U.S. as a hunter-killer drone. It is designed for long flights and high-altitude surveillance. The Reaper is an improved version of the earlier MQ-1 Predator, featuring a larger payload capacity, better range, and faster speed.

The Reaper, a remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) made by General Atomics, can fly for over 27 hours and reach speeds of 240 KTAS (about 445 km/h). It can operate at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet and has a payload capacity of 3,850 pounds (1,746 kilograms), which includes 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms) for external equipment. The Reaper is versatile and can be used for a variety of missions.

The Reaper has a wingspan of 66 feet (20.1 meters), a length of 36 feet (11 meters), and a height of 12.5 feet (3.8 meters). Its fuel capacity is 602 gallons (about 2,278 liters).

Threats to Ukraine and Its Allies

The introduction of the Mohajer-10 drone at the Russian Army exhibition is raising concerns for Ukraine, Israel, and other Western nations. Iran has long been accused of supplying reconnaissance and attack drones to Russia during the ongoing war in Ukraine, including the Mohajer-6 variant. However, Iran has consistently denied these claims.

In March 2024, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense reported that its forces shot down and captured a Mohajer-6 drone that was being used by Russian troops. 

The Kyiv Independent notes that Mohajer-10 drones may soon be seen in the skies over Ukraine, as reported by the respected outlet Interesting Engineering.

The drone also poses a potential threat to Israel, especially given the recent tensions between the two countries. 

A report from the Tehran Times highlighted that Iranian Brigadier General Shadmani issued a strong warning to Israel during the exhibition in Russia, stating that a response from Tehran is "fast approaching" following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh 

(The author of this article is a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany)

(Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author's own and do not reflect those of DNA)