As the domestically built drone carrier Shahid Bahman Bagheri was unveiled, Iran released images of its self-proclaimed stealth fighter, the F-313 Qaher, which has been converted into one of the carrier-based drones equipping the new fleet vessel. This model was first showcased to the public in 2013 during the Ten-Day Dawn celebrations, marking the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, where it was presented to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as an innovative system compared to previous Iranian developments.
However, as noted by the specialized outlet The Aviationist, the photographs from that time raised numerous doubts about its characteristics as a stealth fighter, particularly regarding the cockpit of the supposed aircraft. Specifically, the F-313 Qaher presented in 2013 had noticeably small dimensions for an average pilot, to the point that their helmet would extend beyond the top of the canopy. Additionally, the cockpit featured a remarkably sparse array of installed equipment. Moreover, observing the sharply downward-angled wings, it was difficult to consider that they could support the aircraft’s weight once equipped with an engine and weaponry.
Further analysis of the system revealed that the engine exhaust lacked the necessary nozzles to operate afterburners in flight or to withstand high temperatures that could potentially melt the aircraft’s structure. Additionally, the F-313 lacked the usual screws and rivets found even on stealth aircraft, and it featured canards and air intakes that were too small for such a system, positioned in a way that would have negatively impacted the aircraft’s performance at high attack angles.
All these issues (and many others) led analysts to believe that the aircraft was merely a plastic mock-up built for the occasion rather than a fully operational fighter. Adding fuel to the speculation, Iranian state-controlled media released multimedia content showing the F-313 in flight to demonstrate its capabilities. However, it was soon revealed that the footage depicted nothing more than a remotely controlled scale model.
In 2017, a series of improvements were introduced in an attempt to develop a slightly more realistic platform, leading to what was called the “Prototype 08.” This version featured a larger cockpit, now capable of accommodating an ejection seat and a pilot, along with more advanced systems and improved materials, replacing the plexiglass previously used. Additionally, new engines—suspected to be locally modified J-85 models—were integrated to address the earlier propulsion issues. However, the aircraft’s wings and air intakes remained impractically sized and shaped, limiting its overall functionality.
More than a decade after its public unveiling—a period during which Iran has indeed made advancements in Unmanned Systems—the F-313 has now reappeared as a drone, designated JAS-313, on the deck of the drone carrier Shahid Bahman Bagheri. This distinctive platform was displayed alongside other drones of the Ababil-3 variant, as well as a series of helicopters, including the U.S.-made Bell 206 and the Russian-made Mil Mi-17.
In the newly released images, the now-unmanned F-313 appears as a significantly smaller platform compared to the originally envisioned aircraft. Among the few known characteristics, it features a single turbofan engine, which appears to be a Jahesh-700 model. However, details regarding its armament capabilities, range, maximum speed, and other key specifications remain unknown, making it difficult to determine its true operational role beyond its propaganda value.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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It’s funny how Western media down plays Iranian made armament then they realize how accurate and great they are. I remember how Brian Hook used to mock Iranian missiles as photobshop however they destroyed just about every Israeli fortified military base some protected by four layers of the most sophisticated US made hardware. Another example is the mighty Shahed 136 with over 42 countries who have now adapted and purchased these drones. Let’s not forget 13th Khordad air defense system that brought down US made Global Hawk ($250 Million dollar drone).
Never under estimate Iran’s military power. What is revealed is not new and most likely been developed 2 years ago. There are lot other newer weapons in their arsenal.