The Shahed 238 is an Iranian jet-powered loitering munition, often categorized as a "kamikaze" UAV. It represents a strategic evolution of Iran's unmanned strike capabilities, moving from the propeller-driven designs of the Shahed-136 and Geran-2 toward higher-speed jet propulsion. Developed to enhance engagement profiles, the aircraft is capable of striking fixed ground targets and is claimed to be effective as an air-to-air interceptor against high-value drones, such as the MQ-9 Reaper.
While the aircraft is associated with the broader Iranian defense industry and Shahed Aviation Industries, it is linked to the Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industrial Company (HESA). HESA is a state-linked aerospace manufacturer under the Iran Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO) and the Iranian Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL). HESA's history dates back to 1964 as the Iran Helicopter Company, later establishing itself as a manufacturing firm in Shahin Shahr, Isfahan, by 1976. Due to its role in proliferation-sensitive programs, HESA was placed on the U.S. Treasury's SDN list in 2008 and the European Union's sanctions list in 2010.
Technically, the Shahed 238 is a small, straight-wing UAV with a length of approximately 3.5 meters and a wingspan of about 3.0 meters. It is powered by a single turbojet engine, although the specific model and manufacturer of the engine remain undisclosed. This propulsion system allows the aircraft to reach maximum level speeds of approximately 600 km/h, with speeds exceeding 700 km/h during attack dives. It has an operational ceiling of roughly 9,100 meters (approximately 30,000 feet) and an endurance of about two hours on internal fuel.
Public disclosure of the Shahed 238's technical characteristics occurred around August 2024, indicating the existence of at least three distinct modifications optimized for different mission sets. Because it is a disposable weapon system, production numbers and specific manufacturing sites remain classified. There are no documented civil operators or certifications for the aircraft, as its role is exclusively military.