Iran's pilotless Qaher stealth fighter shows promise in flight tests

Iran's domestically produced pilotless Qaher (Conqueror) stealth fighter has shown promising results during its ongoing flight tests, according to General Afshin Khajefard, managing director of the Iran Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO).

The announcement came at the 12th Iran International Aerospace Exhibition (Iran Airshow 2024), held on the island of Kish in the Persian Gulf, Caliber.Az reports per Iranian media.

Khajefard revealed that the pilotless version of the Qaher fighter jet, which was developed by Iranian experts, is currently undergoing flight trials, with the results deemed "encouraging."

Thus, the Qaher-313, a single-seat stealth jet first unveiled in February 2013, is notable for its ability to take off and land on short runways. The conversion into a pilotless aircraft is part of Iran's wider ambition to advance its aerospace capabilities.

During the event, Khajefard also outlined plans for the development of various jet trainers, highlighting the goal of achieving complete self-sufficiency in this sector. One of the key priorities for the Iranian Defence Ministry is to enhance the training fleet for the Armed Forces.

In addition, the general disclosed plans for a new combat helicopter designed specifically for Iran's naval forces. This locally manufactured helicopter is expected to be unveiled soon.

In recent years, Iran has made significant strides in producing a range of indigenous military equipment, bolstering its self-sufficiency in the arms sector.

By Aghakazim Guliyev