“Shahed 171,” known as “Simorgh,” is Iran’s first 100% reverse-engineered example of the American RQ-170 drone. This advanced aircraft, with its flying-wing design, use of radar-absorbing materials, the “Toloue-14” turbofan engine, and an operational range of 4,400 kilometers, is regarded as one of the most important achievements of the IRGC Aerospace Force in the field of stealth and reconnaissance-combat drones.
Specialized Review of the Shahed 171 (Simorgh) Drone
The Shahed 171 drone, known in Iran’s military literature as “Simorgh,” is a turning point in Iran’s drone capability. This aircraft is recognized not only as a tool for long-range reconnaissance and espionage, but also as a symbol of the complex reverse engineering of advanced aerial systems.
History and Acquisition of the Technology
The story of “Simorgh” began with the capture of the advanced American RQ-170 Sentinel drone (known as the Beast of Kandahar) in December 2011. After the successful control and landing of this aircraft by Iran’s electronic warfare units, specialists of the IRGC Aerospace Force, having gained access to the software and hardware data, paved the way for the construction of indigenous models. The first 100% example of this drone was unveiled on May 12, 2014.
Design and Technical Specifications
The Shahed 171, with a structure similar to the original model, utilizes a composite body and radar-absorbing materials (RAM) to minimize its radar signature. The absence of a tail and the integrated flying-wing design increase its stability and stealth characteristics in environments with layered air defense.
Shahed 171 Technical Specifications Table
Technical Characteristic Data
Mission Type Reconnaissance, espionage, and combat
Fuselage Length 4.75 meters
Wingspan 13 meters
Height 1.2 meters
Engine Toloue-14 turbofan (6 kN thrust)
Maximum Takeoff Weight 3,070 kilograms
Maximum Speed 460 kilometers per hour
Operational Range 4,400 kilometers
Flight Endurance 10 hours
Service Ceiling 40,000 feet (12,000 meters)
Operational and Combat Capabilities
Although the Shahed 171 was initially developed with a focus on reconnaissance and interception of communications systems (mobile and radio) and strategic imaging, in upgraded versions combat capabilities were also added. This drone is capable of carrying four guided bombs and, using precise sensors (thermal, radioactive, and optical), targeting objectives with high accuracy.
The Simorgh Drone Family (Shahed 181 and 191)
Following the success in producing the Shahed 171, Iran proceeded to develop smaller versions (60% of the original scale), which are known for greater agility and lower operational costs:
Shahed 181: An upgraded model in 2016, designed based on a smaller platform.
Shahed 191: Unveiled in 2018 at the “Eghtedar 40” exhibition; due to its smaller dimensions and higher combat capabilities, this drone is one of the most widely used versions of this family, employed not only for reconnaissance but also in offensive operations.
The Shahed 171 (Simorgh), by combining stealth characteristics, long range, and ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) capabilities, forms the backbone of Iran’s stealth drone fleet. The continued development of this platform with new engines and indigenous guidance systems remains one of the country’s defense industries’ priorities in maintaining air superiority.
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