The Persian Gulf, a crucial chokepoint for global oil trade, has been a theater of tensions involving Iran, the U.S., and regional states such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The presence of a dedicated drone carrier in these waters enables Iran to:
- Monitor foreign naval movements with greater precision.
- Enhance its defensive and offensive maritime operations.
- Strengthen its deterrence posture against potential adversaries.
The Role of UAVs in Iran’s Naval Strategy
Drones have become a central component of Iran’s defense and military operations. Over the years, Iran has developed a diverse array of UAVs, ranging from reconnaissance models such as the “Shahed-129” to combat drones like the “Shahed-136”. The integration of these drones into naval operations allows Iran to execute persistent surveillance, identify potential threats, and engage adversarial forces if necessary.