Unveils Kordestan Base, Multipurpose Destroyer Sahand
TEHRAN – Iran’s Army
Commander-in-Chief Major General Amir Hatami and Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani inaugurated a new naval support base named “Kordestan” and formally added the recommissioned destroyer “Sahand” to the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy (IRIN), the military said on Saturday.
The ceremony, held in the First Naval Region in Bandar Abbas, included the unveiling of high-speed missile boats, multi-purpose unmanned aerial vehicles, smart unmanned submersibles, and coastal and sea-based missile, electronic warfare, and intelligence systems.
Officials said these additions aim to enhance Iran’s maritime operational capabilities.
According to the Army’s Public Relations Office, Kordestan is a port-city-style base capable of providing full support to naval combat units and assistance to other organizations or individuals requiring aid.
The base is expected to strengthen Iran’s operational presence in distant waters and expand access to international maritime routes.
Rear Admiral Irani described Sahand as a multi-purpose destroyer equipped with modern systems across surface, sub-surface, and electronic warfare domains. The ship is ready for long-range missions and operations in open waters. Its primary duties include escorting naval convoys and participating in joint exercises, according to Irani.
Irani also spoke about Kordestan as a “comprehensive support platform.” The base can provide medical, communication, aviation, submersible, diving, rapid response, and logistical services, including fuel, food, and medical supplies.
He said that lessons learned from Naval Group 86 informed the base’s construction and operational capabilities, in line with Iran’s blue-water naval strategy.
The Naval Group 86, featuring the indigenously built Dena destroyer and the Makran forward base ship, embarked from Bandar Abbas in September 2022 and successfully circumnavigated international waters, demonstrating
Iran’s growing maritime reach and operational capability.
“Kordestan is a strategic naval support base with high operational capacity,” Irani said. “Its main mission is to support combat
units and escort missions, but it can also provide services to commercial and fishing vessels.”
He added that the Navy would provide assistance to friendly nations in accordance with Iran’s policy of peace and cooperation.
The naming of the base after an Iranian province is part of a broader effort to emphasize national unity. A second base, “Khuzestan”, will follow the same naming convention, officials said.
The recommissioning of Sahand follows an accident in July 2024 when the destroyer was damaged at Bandar Abbas dock, creating public concern.
Despite doubts about the vessel’s recovery, Navy personnel restored it within 14 days, officials said. The destroyer now carries updated systems, modern weaponry, and enhanced operational capacity.
Major General Hatami highlighted the Navy’s historical role, including its performance during the Iran-Iraq War.
“In the first 70 days of the war, the Navy suppressed enemy forces and established maritime control. After the eight-year conflict, the Navy modernized surface and sub-surface vessels, weapons, electronic warfare systems, mines, torpedoes, and missiles,” Hatami said.
He added that this modernization will continue with support from the Defense Ministry, the armed forces, knowledge-based companies, and universities.
On the recommissioning of Sahand, Hatami said: “Through the dedication of Navy specialists and full support from Navy and Army leadership, the destroyer has been restored quickly. It is now equipped and ready for operations.”
He also emphasized the strategic role of Kordestan. “Naming this base after Kordestan is an important step,” Hatami said.
“Other bases will be named after provinces. Kordestan can support combat units and provide aid to those in need.”
Hatami addressed regional security, emphasizing the importance of the Strait of Hormuz. “Peace, stability, and security in this region are essential for all countries, including Iran. Any threat to this security will be met with a firm response. The region belongs to its people; outsiders must leave,” he said.
Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari, Deputy Coordinator of the Army, stressed the role of naval power in Iran’s blue-water economy.
“Iran has access to open waters via the Persian Gulf, which is a source of national wealth and strategic strength. To develop a sustainable maritime economy, we must strengthen our Navy,” he said.
Sayyari added that a capable Navy requires skilled personnel, modern equipment, and advanced technology suitable for both regional and distant waters.
He said all vessels joining the fleet today are better equipped and more technologically advanced than their predecessors, reflecting guidance from the Supreme Leader.
The naming of vessels and bases reflects Iran’s heritage. Combat ships are named after mountains, missile boats after historical epics, and support vessels after ports.