Iranian Navy launched its 6-day ‘Velayat 91′ specialized naval exercises

Iranian Navy launched its 6-day ‘Velayat 91′ specialized naval exercises that covers international waters in Gulf of Oman, Hormuz Strait, North of Indian Ocean, Aden Gulf and Bab el Mandeb Strait.

Navy commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari told reporters that Velayat-91 naval exercises will demonstrate Iran's navy capabilities in defense of Iran's interests and sea borders, carrying the message of peace for neighbors.

“Among the aims of the drill is to display the capabilities of Iran’s Armed Forces and the Navy to defend our country’s water borders and interests in line with establishing durable security in the region and conveying the message of peace and friendship to the neighboring states,” Sayyari added.

He said that the Velayat 91 drill also sends this message to enemies that the Iranian nation seriously defends its vital interests in all areas, in particular in free waters.

Navy’s 23rd fleet of warships, comprised of the Jamaran destroyer and the Bushehr Helicopter carrier will escort trade ships and oil tankers against the piracy during the exercise, the commander added.

The exercises will test missile and defense systems, combat fleets and submarines, and will also include combat training, maritime patrol and reconnaissance and combating threats, according to Sayyari.

The exercises would also test the navy’s capabilities of dealing with electronic warfare alongside its knowledge of naval combat, he added.

Sayyari said that the IRI’s submarine capability has advanced compared with last year, adding that Iran now has the ability to manufacture submarines including the Ghadir brand as well as repairing and overhauling heavy submarines.