U.S. Military Deploys Sea Drones for First Time in Strikes Against Iran: "Targeting Submarines and Naval Facilities"

The U.S. military, which has been conducting airstrikes against Iran in response to attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, announced that it has completed strikes on Iranian submarine and naval maintenance facilities.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated on X on July 13 (local time), "Yesterday, CENTCOM forces successfully struck Iranian submarine and naval vessel maintenance facilities using multiple one-way attack drones."

It added, "Three Corsair unmanned surface vessels attacked the port at the Bandar Abbas Naval Base," noting that "this marks the first instance of the U.S. military deploying sea drones in combat operations."

The 'Corsair' unmanned surface vessel, produced by defense contractor Saronic, began deployment with the U.S. Navy in March.

Last month, the vessels were deployed in an operation to rescue two U.S. Army Apache helicopter crew members who were shot down by Iranian forces in the Gulf of Oman.

CENTCOM stated, "Last night's strikes have degraded Iran's ability to continue attacking merchant vessels."

Iran has continued its attacks on merchant ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz even after the implementation of a ceasefire memorandum of understanding with the U.S., which guaranteed safe passage through the strait.

In response, the U.S. military has expanded its airstrikes targeting Iranian air defense systems, coastal radar stations, and Iranian naval vessels to weaken Iran's maritime attack capabilities.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.