The Iranian Navy’s modern frigate Sahand capsized during maintenance work at the southern port of Bandar Abbas. The vessel lost its balance due to water ingress, ultimately causing it to tip onto its side.
Several individuals sustained minor injuries and were taken to a local hospital for treatment. Efforts to stabilize and recover the vessel are ongoing, with images showing the Sahand partially submerged, with only parts of the hull and sonar dome above the water.
The Iranian Navy has encountered several significant incidents in recent years. These include the sinking of the frigate Damavand after grounding in 2018, the fire and sinking of the support vessel Kharg in 2021, the capsizing of the Talayieh in dry dock in 2021, and the Konarak being mistakenly hit by an Iranian missile in 2020.
While the exact cause of the Sahand’s capsizing is still under investigation, initial reports point to a technical failure during the repair process. Potential causes include poor maintenance practices or a docking accident, though sabotage has not been ruled out. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the Iranian Navy’s operational and maintenance standards.
The Sahand is part of the Moudge-class frigates, based on the British Vosper Mark 5 design. It features advanced radar systems and increased missile capacity. These modifications, while boosting combat effectiveness, may have compromised the vessel’s stability.
The Sahand has been deployed in regions such as the Red Sea, where it has allegedly supported Houthi rebels in Yemen by providing intelligence and logistical support for attacks on commercial vessels.
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