Iran Deploys Ghadir Mini-Subs to Hormuz as Analysts Say Threat May Last Only 2 Days
Updated
Updated · Fox News · May 14
Iran Deploys Ghadir Mini-Subs to Hormuz as Analysts Say Threat May Last Only 2 Days
10 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 14
Iran said it has sent Ghadir-class mini-submarines into the Strait of Hormuz as an "invisible guardian," underscoring its push to tighten control of the waterway after rejected peace proposals with Washington.
Tom Shugart, a former U.S. Navy submarine warfare officer, said the diesel-electric boats could hide briefly in shallow waters but likely would have to snorkel within a couple of days, exposing them to radar and acoustic detection.
He said the mini-subs may still lay mines or threaten merchant shipping, but are not a serious danger to U.S. Navy warships or submarines because of their limited range, endurance and firepower.
The deployment comes with Hormuz effectively closed, tanker traffic largely choked off, reported strikes on stranded vessels and increased IRGC fast-attack craft activity amid a continuing U.S. blockade of Iranian ports.
U.S. forces are also working to clear Iranian mines from the strait, while the Navy on May 10 confirmed an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine had arrived in Gibraltar.
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