H-110 Sarir

The H-110 Sarir (Persian for "Throne") is an Iranian drone first shown in April 2013 by the IRIA. It is built for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance work, using electro-optical and infrared sensors. According to Iranian state media, it might be able to carry air-to-air missiles, but no outside source has confirmed this. The aircraft has two pylons under the inner wings for carrying equipment.

Its range and endurance are not clearly known. Iranian state media claim the Sarir has stealth features, but its twin propellers—one pulling at the front, one pushing at the rear—create a large radar signature, as do the external pylons. The airframe also lacks typical low-observable design elements like angled tail surfaces or a blended wing body.

About ten are thought to be in service.

The Sarir’s body is roughly 7 meters long, with a 9-meter wingspan and a height under 2 meters. It can fly at altitudes between 3,500 and 5,500 meters, with flight times of 8 to 12 hours.

Its payload capacity is estimated at around 100 kilograms. Notable features claimed include radar evasion, long range, high endurance, the ability to carry weapons and cameras, and longer flight times than manned aircraft. It is said to be effective at identifying targets, engaging them, and photographing enemy positions.

The drone uses two piston-propeller engines: one at the front of the fuselage for traction, the other at the rear for thrust. This is the first and only Iranian combat UAV with such a setup. The twin-engine design offers better reliability, higher speed, greater ceiling, improved takeoff power, and more cargo capacity.

The main reason for two engines is to provide enough lift for air-to-air missiles, since carrying two under the wings on a drone this size creates significant drag. Placing both engines in the fuselage, rather than on the wings, reduces air resistance and overall weight while improving survivability and reliability on long or risky missions. However, two engines may burn more fuel than a single engine of similar technology.