A military drone crashed during a test flight on Monday in the northern city of Gorgan, resulting in injuries to two civilians, as reported by the deputy governor of Golestan Province.
Debris fell in different parts of the northern city of Gorgon, according to the official IRNA news agency.
The incident took place around 9 a.m. local time, with the fallen objects scattered throughout Gorgan, primarily in residential zones. In response, military and security forces promptly initiated an investigation to ascertain the full extent and implications of the incident.
On the morning of the event, residents were startled by a loud boom, prompting reports of many strange objects descending in various locations in the city. Local authorities have confirmed the incident and launched an investigation.
Notably, the incident happened on Gorgan’s Standard Boulevard, with one of the unidentified items even landing on the grounds of Shahid Dezjani Hospital. Multiple fragments were seen dropping around the city, according to witnesses and locals.
The semi official Tasnim news agency released a video showing white smoke rising from different areas and the sound of anti-aircraft batteries.
Defense Ministry spokesman Brigadier General Reza Talaee Nik told state TV that the test flight in a remote area went off track due to a “technical failure.” He did not specify the type of drone, but images of the wreckage circulating on social media suggested it was the type that carries bombs.
“Fortunately, there have been no casualties in this incident, and if there has been any material damage to our fellow citizens, it will be compensated by the Ministry of Defense,” he added.
According to Talaee Nik, operation and rescue personnel are actively collecting the fallen debris.
“While thanking the noble people of Gorgan, we expect that if they come across any remaining pieces, they will refrain from tampering with or moving them, so that the operational teams can complete their tasks as soon as possible.”
Sources: Tehran Times; AP