Chinese exercise reveals new Iranian capability
The visit by a Chinese naval fleet to Iran has revealed a possible upgrade to an Iranian frigate.
The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) made a four day visit to Bandar Abbas between the 15 to 18 June, completing with a joint exercise with the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy (IRIN) in the Straits of Hormuz.
Official imagery released by Chinese and Iranian state media outlets showed the IRIN vessel, Alvand, conducting manoeuvres with PLAN ships but also gave a clear image of an apparently new antenna.
Analysis of additional imagery of the IRIS Alvand from the last 12
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
US Navy to invest nearly $12 billion in maritime uncrewed systems and naval munitions in FY2026
Forming part of the Reconciliation Bill, the funding will support multiple efforts involving autonomous capabilities, interceptors, missiles, rockets and torpedoes.
-
US Navy receives final Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship
The delivery acceptance of the future USS Pierre marks the conclusion of the construction phase for the Independence-variant.
-
RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser
The new Barracuda version has been engineered to perform enhanced subsea and seabed warfare missions.
-
US Coast Guard enhances Arctic protection with a new Fast Response Cutter
After commissioning, FRC Frederick Mann will operate in Alaska and perform multiple missions.
-
US Coast Guard announces measures to further implement Force Design 2028 strategy
The US Coast Guard (USCG) created new units, including five Programme Executive Offices (PEOs), to facilitate and speed up the procurement of new capabilities.