According to Khabaronline, The tactical drill, conducted in the Sea of Oman and the northern reaches of the Indian Ocean, simulated the rescue of a hijacked merchant ship. The operation commenced after a distress signal was transmitted to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) in Bandar Abbas.
Multi-Agency Tactical Response
The multi-stage operation began with an intensive aerial reconnaissance mission conducted by an IRIN SH3D helicopter and an IRGCN Bell 412 helicopter. Following the identification of the target, the Iranian destroyer Alvand, acting as the flagship of the exercise, directed combat vessels to the operational zone to initiate the rescue mission.
In a coordinated display of force, special operations teams from the Iranian Army, the IRGC, and the Russian Navy conducted a joint assault from both sea and air. Commandos successfully boarded the vessel, neutralized the simulated pirates, and secured the ship.
Advanced Formations and Strategic Coordination
Beyond the liberation drill, participating units successfully performed:
- Photo Exercise (Photo Ex): High-precision aerial photography and documentation of fleet movements.
- Tactical Maneuvers: Complex formations designed to enhance joint command and control.
- Offensive Arrays: Testing rapid response capabilities and offensive positioning to bolster tactical synergy between the two nations.
Participating Assets
The massive exercise featured a diverse array of naval and aerial hardware:
- Islamic Republic of Iran Navy (Army): Destroyer Alvand, missile boats Neyzeh and Khanjar, SH3D helicopters, landing crafts, and specialized Rib and Raad assault vessels.
- IRGC Navy: Corvette Shahid Sayyad, Tondar-class vessels, Bell 412 helicopters, and high-speed assault boats.
- Russian Navy: The helicopter-carrying cruiser Stoiky.
- Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force: Two F-4 Phantom fighter jets providing aerial support.
Military officials stated that the maneuvers aimed to improve tactical coordination and strengthen the collective security of international shipping lanes. The operational phases were launched following a comprehensive briefing session between the commanders of the participating naval forces.