Islamic Republic of Iran Navy Fleet Inventory 🇮🇷

Iran's naval power is uniquely bifurcated, split between the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy (IRIN) and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN). This dual structure reflects a layered maritime strategy, combining conventional naval roles with asymmetric warfare capabilities. The IRIN operates as a more traditional navy, focusing on the Gulf of Oman and deep-sea operations, while the IRGCN is primarily responsible for the security of the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran’s naval capabilities are centered on an asymmetric doctrine designed to counter a technologically superior adversary. This involves the use of a large number of small, fast attack craft, which can be deployed in swarming tactics to overwhelm enemy warships. The fleet also includes midget submarines, which pose a significant threat in the confined waters of the Persian Gulf. Iran has a substantial inventory of naval mines, which could be rapidly deployed to disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. A key component of its naval power is the extensive arsenal of land-based and sea-launched anti-ship cruise and ballistic missiles, creating a formidable anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) environment.

Tehran's maritime strategy is focused on ensuring its control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies. Iran's naval exercises often simulate the closure of this strait, highlighting its willingness to use this as leverage. The IRIN has also been expanding its operational reach, undertaking long-range deployments to the Indian Ocean and beyond, demonstrating growing blue-water ambitions and a desire to project power and influence. These deployments also serve to strengthen strategic relationships with partner nations.

Iran's shipbuilding industry is a critical element of its naval strategy, with a focus on producing indigenous warships and submarines. Recent developments include the construction of new catamaran-style missile boats with reduced radar cross-sections and vertical launch systems. Iran has also converted several large container ships into "motherships," which can launch drones, missiles, and fast attack craft, extending the range and persistence of its naval forces.

The operational reach of the Iranian navy has been steadily increasing. While the IRGCN remains focused on the Persian Gulf, the IRIN has demonstrated its ability to conduct extended voyages, with port calls in Asia and Africa. These deployments serve both a diplomatic and military purpose, showcasing Iran's growing confidence and naval capabilities on the world stage.