Frigate IRIS Sahand (74)

IRIS Sahand (74) is a frigate belonging to the Moudge-class in the Southern Fleet of the Navy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, commemoratively named after the previously sunk frigate associated with the Sahand volcano.

Sahand has been furnished with an indigenously produced point-defense weapon system known as «Kamand.» This close-in weapon system, Kamand, has the capability to eliminate any approaching target from a distance or altitude of 2–4 kilometers (1.2–2.5 mi) by discharging between 4,000 and 7,000 rounds per minute. Sahand is armed with cruise anti-ship missiles, featuring a helicopter deck and electronic warfare systems.

It is asserted that Sahand possesses twice the defensive and offensive capabilities of Jamaran, incorporating upgraded torpedo tubes, diverse anti-air and anti-surface weapons, surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles, and a point-defense mechanism. Sahand is equipped with an anti-submarine system and a stealth feature, boasting increased maneuverability and an extended operational range. The vessel is propelled by four robust engines, an enhancement over Jamaran.

Sahand demonstrates the capability to navigate turbulent waters and distant oceans for up to 150 days, accompanied by a support vessel.

Irani also mentioned that Nawab, a domestically developed medium-range surface-to-air missile system, has already been integrated into the Sahand destroyer. Point-defense systems designed for detecting and neutralizing incoming missiles and enemy aircraft, along with anti-missile systems, have also been implemented in this indigenous destroyer. He further stated that efforts are ongoing to install the Abu Mahdi naval cruise missile on Iranian military watercraft, emphasizing that the country's destroyers will be outfitted with more potent cruise missiles. He clarified that the Iranian Navy's surface-to-surface cruise missile capability has doubled, and the destroyers will be deployed to the high seas for the first time, carrying 8 cruise missiles.

Sahand was revealed to the public in late November 2012, featuring images of the completed hull and superstructure. However, the ship was not equipped with weapons, electronics, or other essential military equipment at that time. These systems were slated to be installed within one or two years. The ship officially entered service on December 1, 2018. Sahand pays homage to the original Sahand, which was sunk by the U.S. in Operation Praying Mantis during the Iran–Iraq War on April 18, 1988.