Reading between the lines, it looks like there will be an unmanned version of the plane and a version with a pilot. that remains to be seen .....
Iran: an unmanned version of Qaher will soon be unveiled
Iran's Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO) has announced plans to unveil an unmanned version of the locally-built Qaher single-seat stealth fighter jet in the next Persian calendar year which begins on March 21.
Speaking on a television broadcast this Saturday, February 18, IAIO Director General Brigadier General Afshin Khajefard said the aircraft was manufactured at the IAIO and the project was mooted for the first time in the media 10 years ago.
“The Qaher project has reached full maturity in terms of technology, but we are producing more diversified products; This means that by the middle of next year you will see [new] versions of this aircraft including the unmanned version being delivered to the armed forces,” he said.
Khajefard also pointed out that Iran is self-sufficient in repairing commercial aircraft and manufacturing components in defiance of sanctions.
"We have reached a level of self-sufficiency in the engine field so that today we can produce 10 types of engines, most of which are used on drones and cruise missiles," he added. .
As for electric planes, Khajefard said the IAIO has started work on several prototypes that will be tested next year.
"Of course, our electric drones have reached full maturity, but electric planes need more improvements," he explained.
Referring to Iran's achievements in developing unmanned aerial vehicles, Khajefard said, “We have different classes of missiles, precision bombs, electronic warfare aircraft and reconnaissance drones. However, we are trying to develop drones with civilian applications, as drones can be used for agriculture, mapping and firefighting. »
