Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) Nazir-1 XLUUV

Flag Iran has revealed its first large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (UUV). The design has subsequently been identified as the ‘Nazir-1’. Once developed this will add a new dimension to Iran’s systematic warfare capability. It will also mean that Iran joins an elite club with only the U.S. Navy and Britain’s Royal Navy having such large UUVs.

Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) XLUUV submarine drone - Covert Shores

In terms of size, and crucially having diesel-electric propulsion, it best fits the extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicle (XLUUV) category. So it is loosely comparable to the US Navy’s Boeing Orca XLUUV. It is clearly less sophisticated however, and in an earlier state of development. The Iranian model is almost certainly cheaper!

Adding large UUVs could provide new ways for the IRGC-N to project power and prestige in the region. The diesel-electric propulsion will give it very long range. And its large size could make weapons integration more feasible. A large UUV used for mine laying would be relatively achievable, for example.

Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) XLUUV submarine drone - Covert Shores

The vessel was displayed at a ceremony to introduce over 100 new boats to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp’s Navy (IRGC-N) on May 28 2020. This is the arm of the armed forces which is most frequently associated with Iran’s more adventurous operations. These include a series of suspected limpet mine attacks on tankers in the Persian Gulf last year.

Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) XLUUV submarine drone - Covert Shores

Update - March 2023

New images shared online of the XLUUV being being displayed on the sidelines of a parade of new equipment. It appears disused. Note the fixed forward planes which were not previously apparent. This may indicate trim or control problems.

Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) XLUUV submarine drone - Covert Shores