Commander: Iranian Navy Expands Global Presence, Joins 12 International Events Since March
Commander Says Iran Has Joined 12 International Naval Events This Year as Maritime Research and Security Take Strategic Priority
Iran, PUREWILAYAH.COM — The Iranian Navy has played an active role in 12 international events so far in the Persian year 1404, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen maritime cooperation, deterrence, and resistance to Western-Israeli domination of regional waters.
Speaking to reporters on Friday on the sidelines of a naval research conference in Nowshahr, Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani said these engagements have included scientific, technical, professional, and sporting activities, as well as participation in regional and extra-regional naval drills.
Iranian Naval Flotilla En Route to Joint Exercise
Rear Admiral Irani said that within the framework of economic cooperation agreements, the 103rd naval flotilla of the Iranian Navy is set to take part in one of the upcoming joint exercises.
He confirmed that the flotilla is currently en route, adding that Iranian naval forces are expected to formally join the drill within the next week, underscoring Iran’s sustained operational readiness and blue-water capabilities despite sanctions and pressure.
The Iranian Navy commander stressed that international drills are only part of Tehran’s broader maritime agenda.
He said the Navy has also planned to conduct exercises in neighboring countries and across oceanic regions, reflecting Iran’s emphasis on collective maritime security, freedom of navigation, and regional self-reliance—principles that stand in contrast to the destabilizing presence of US and Israeli forces in West Asian waters.
Trilateral Naval Exercise to Include More Countries
Rear Admiral Irani further announced plans for a trilateral naval exercise to be held in the near future, noting that the drill is expected to involve a larger number of participating countries.
The planned exercise signals Iran’s expanding maritime partnerships and the failure of Israeli-Western efforts to isolate the Islamic Republic militarily or diplomatically.
Maritime Research Central to National Strategy
Emphasizing the strategic role of naval research, Irani said that achievements presented during Research Week—with a focus on maritime security, sailor safety, and protection of the marine environment—will form the scientific and operational foundation of the Navy’s activities this year and beyond.
He explained that these research initiatives are aligned with Iran’s nine-point maritime-oriented development policies, which have elevated the seas and oceans into one of the country’s most critical strategic domains.
Focus on Maritime Security and Environmental Protection
The Navy commander highlighted the importance of marine environmental protection, describing it as a major international challenge that all countries now face.
He stressed that alongside environmental preservation, the Iranian Navy places strong emphasis on maritime safety and security for all seafarers, reaffirming Iran’s stated commitment to stability and responsible conduct at sea—despite constant threats and provocations by the Israeli regime and its Western backers. (PW)