The Iranian Navy recently suffered a significant loss when the frigate IRIS Sahand [F-74] unexpectedly sank at the port of Bandar Abbas. Reports from Iranian and Russian sources indicate that the cause of the sinking remains unclear. The frigate, docked at the southern Iranian port on the Persian Gulf, was found lying on its left side, with parts of its starboard side and conning tower visible above the waterline. Iranian media have acknowledged the "incident" but have not provided detailed explanations, referring to it as an accident.
The IRIS Sahand [F-74] is relatively new, having joined the fleet on December 1, 2018. It was constructed at the Shahid Darvishi Marine Industries shipyard in Bandar Abbas, near the Strait of Hormuz. Sahand is the third vessel in the Mowj project lineup, following its predecessors, Jamaran and Damavand.
Named after a volcano, the IRIS Sahand carries the legacy of its predecessor, a British-built Vosper Mk. 5 light frigate that was lost during combat with American forces in Operation Praying Mantis in 1988. The current IRIS Sahand made headlines in 2021 by traveling from the Persian Gulf to the Baltic Sea to participate in the Main Naval Parade of the Russian Navy.
The IRIS Sahand is a Moudge-class frigate, domestically produced in Iran. It was launched in November 2012 and entered service in December 2018. The vessel measures approximately 94 meters (308 feet) in length and 11 meters (36 feet) in beam, with a draft of about 3.25 meters (10.7 feet). These dimensions enable it to perform a variety of naval operations across different maritime environments.
Powered by four diesel engines, the IRIS Sahand can reach speeds of up to 30 knots and has a range of about 3,700 nautical miles when cruising at 15 knots. With a displacement of around 1,500 tons, it is classified as a light frigate but is equipped with advanced systems and weaponry, making it a versatile and formidable part of the Iranian Navy.
The frigate features an array of systems, including radar, sonar, and electronic warfare capabilities, enhancing its ability to detect, track, and engage various threats. Its advanced communication systems enable seamless coordination with other naval units.
The IRIS Sahand typically has a crew of around 140 personnel, including officers, sailors, and specialized technicians responsible for operating and maintaining the ship’s diverse systems and weaponry. The crew size ensures efficient operations and readiness for various missions.
In terms of armaments, the IRIS Sahand is well-equipped with anti-ship missiles like the Noor and Qader, capable of striking enemy vessels over long distances. For defense against multi-spectrum threats, it is armed with torpedoes, naval guns, and surface-to-air missiles. Additionally, it features close-in weapon systems (CIWS) for point defense against incoming missiles and aircraft.
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