Shahed in Persian means “witness”. But in Shiite non secular language it’s a phrase that’s related to martyrdom. A shahed is a martyr. A kamikaze. This is why Iranian drones are known as that. Because they’re kamikaze plane: they’re launched in the direction of a goal and detonate on affect. In current years they’ve develop into one of the crucial efficient navy instruments developed by Iran.
And right now, on this new conflict, they’re absolutely the protagonists of Tehran’s counteroffensive.
The most widespread mannequin is the Shahed-136. It is roughly 3.5 meters lengthy, has a wingspan of simply over 2 meters and weighs lower than 200 kilos, the identical as a medium-sized motorcycle. The peculiarity is within the warhead, which normally accommodates 40-50 kilos of explosives. A Shahed-136, as soon as the GPS coordinates have been set earlier than taking off, can hit targets as much as 2,000 kilometers away. And it usually hits them with out interference.
It flies at moderately gradual speeds, in comparison with a missile. It strikes slowly, usually at low altitude, with a small propeller engine. Its sound is attribute of drones (the phrase drone in English means buzz). Yes, a steady hum, which in Ukraine has led many troopers to name it a “flying scooter”.
The decisive level, nevertheless, is the price. Because Shaheds value as a lot as a small automobile.
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