Iran launches its first navy drill since war with Israel

Iran has already started its first naval drill, the so-called Sustainable Power 1404, after being engaged in war against Israel for 12 days. The drill was practiced by launching missiles of frigate IRIS Sabalan and patrol vessel IRIS Ganaveh at the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean. The successful launch of the Nasir and Qadir cruise missiles were covered in the state media. The drill follows an attack by Israel on the air defence and nuclear installations in Iran in the conflict. Iran wants to demonstrate its power in spite of recent embarrassments.

Context 

• The exercise follows that of Iran which fought a war against Israel that paralysed its defence as well as nuclear plant.

• Military practices are a regular occurrence in Iran and it is considered to have symbolic significance following the June conflict.

• Iran desires to communicate authority to the local and global public.

Key Points

Name and Time of exercise

• Exercise rubber stamped as Sustainable Power 1404.

• The first significant post-June 12-day war with israel military action.

Missile Launches

• IRIS Sabalan (frigate), IRIS Ganaveh (smaller ship) were involved.

• Successful firing Nasir and Qadir cruise missiles with the ability to attack sea targets.

Strategic Significance

• The number of the navy of Iran: approx. 18,000.

• The war did not affect the navy of Iran much and there were no major attacks like in the air and nuclear units.

• Exercise carried out in a bid to demonstrate the capability to deter in the region.

Message & Projection

• Signals military resilience in spite of Israeli aggression

• These satellites are intended to calm the people of the country and to threaten the neighbors.

Conclusion

The show by Iran is perhaps as much a demonstration of their probability as a demonstration of its deterrence. It tries to uphold credibility in the regional waters through carrying out successful missile launches in the sea. Iran focuses on its lasting military power and preparedness in spite of the losses it incurred during the war.