Iranian Naval Drill in the Strait of Hormuz Showcases New Missile and Drone Capabilities
WANA (Feb 17) – A large-scale combined military exercise titled “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz”, led by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), began yesterday in the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz region.
The first phase of the drill was conducted on Iranian islands in the Persian Gulf, focusing on improving operational readiness, strengthening deterrence capabilities, and enhancing multilayered defense systems for key strategic islands.
Exercise Begins at Iran’s Southernmost Territory
The initial phase of the exercise started on Abu Musa Island, Iran’s southernmost territorial point located roughly 1,145 kilometers south of Tehran. During this stage, military forces demonstrated fortified, multi-layer defensive formations across the islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Sirri Island.
These islands hold strategic value due to their geographic position overlooking shipping routes in the Persian Gulf and the western approach to the Strait of Hormuz.
Missile Units Test Advanced Systems
Missile units participating in the drill deployed the latest missile systems and combat tactics under simulated electronic warfare conditions. According to officials, cruise missiles were launched simultaneously from coastal and maritime platforms toward designated targets. These systems reportedly feature anti-electronic warfare capabilities and artificial-intelligence-based guidance designed to counter potential interference.
Rapid response battalions stationed on the islands also practiced offensive and defensive maneuvers. Drone and underwater units from the IRGC Navy conducted operations launched from the three Iranian islands, striking pre-assigned targets. Officials stated that some operational details were withheld for security reasons.
Deployment of New Iranian Military Drones
The exercise also featured the deployment of new Iranian drones reportedly capable of engaging both aerial and naval targets. Officials described these drones as among Iran’s latest strategic military assets and said they are available in significant numbers within IRGC naval units, though their names and technical specifications remain undisclosed.
During the first phase of the drill, IRGC Commander-in-Chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour visited the islands to oversee operations and described the readiness of deployed forces as “excellent.” He highlighted the establishment of extensive fortifications and advanced defensive systems around the islands and emphasized the need for continuous enhancement of these capabilities.
IRGC Navy Commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri also stressed the strategic importance of the islands, stating that forces stationed there are fully capable of engaging both surface and aerial targets. He said missiles deployed on the islands can strike hostile targets, including destroyers, at ranges of up to 1,000 kilometers, with improved precision and enhanced warhead power.
Focus on Independent Island Defense
A central theme of the exercise is the concept of independent defense of the islands without direct support from mainland Iran. Under this strategy, units stationed on the islands rely on domestically produced weapons systems, long-range missiles, drones, and electronic warfare equipment to defend Iranian territory directly.
Officials announced that the main phase of the exercise is scheduled to continue today in the Strait of Hormuz area, with a focus on “smart control” of the strategic waterway. The strait remains one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes and plays a key role in regional security and geopolitical dynamics.
The “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz” drill is being conducted overall to improve operational preparedness, demonstrate deterrence capabilities, and reinforce long-term security in Iran’s territorial and surrounding waters.
Main Phase of IRGC Navy Drill Held in Strait of Hormuz
According to reports, the main phase of a naval exercise by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was held in the Strait of Hormuz.
Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, who was present to oversee the main segment of the drill in the strategic waterway, addressed the issue of potentially closing the strait if necessary.
“The decision to close the Strait of Hormuz lies with the senior leadership of the system,” he said. “As a soldier, I say that we are ready to carry out this task whenever our leaders order it.”
Tangsiri added that the weaponry used in wartime would differ from what is displayed during military exercises.
For the duration of the drill, maritime traffic in the strait was suspended for several hours. According to the IRGC Navy commander, once clearance is announced, vessels remain positioned behind the Strait of Hormuz.
The report stated that the second phase of the “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz” exercise was conducted with the participation of IRGC naval combat and rapid reaction units, aimed at ensuring security and safe maritime transit.
Various defensive and offensive systems and weapons were deployed, which military experts present at the exercise said struck designated targets with the highest precision.
Fast missile-launching vessels of the IRGC Navy also carried out missile operations, with missiles launched from inland locations, as well as from Iranian coasts and islands in the Persian Gulf, hitting targets in the Strait of Hormuz.
Drone units also took part in the exercise, employing reconnaissance and attack unmanned aerial vehicles to conduct operations in signal-jamming environments, accurately striking both fixed and moving targets.
Warships take part in the closing parade of a joint naval military drill between Iran, Russia, and China in the Gulf of Oman, Iran, in this picture obtained by Reuters on March 18, 2023. Iranian Army/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
