US deploys naval drones against Iran for first time
Photo: The US attacked Iranian air defense systems, missiles, and drones (Getty Images)
On the night of July 13, the US launched another wave of strikes against Iran, hitting dozens of targets. However, during this attack, US forces used maritime drones for the first time, according to US Central Command (CENTCOM).
The command justifies the new attack on Iran by stating that it was necessary to prevent Tehran from attacking international vessels. The new operation involved aircraft, ships, and, for the first time, a specific type of drone.
"CENTCOM forces struck Iranian military air-defense systems, coastal radar sites, missile and drone capabilities, and small boats using US fighter aircraft, naval vessels, one-way attack aerial drones, and one-way attack sea drones for the first time," the statement says.
CENTCOM emphasizes that Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz and that US forces, in turn, are ready to ensure freedom of navigation for merchant ships, despite Iran’s unjustified aggression.
US deploys naval drones against Iran for first time pic.twitter.com/CqkYNyQAKj
— RBC-Ukraine (@NewsUkraineRBC) July 13, 2026
What Iran says
The Iranian side reported that it had already launched a retaliatory strike using missiles and drones. Tehran claims to have attacked:
- US airbase in Jordan, damaging ammunition depots and fuel tanks
- Targets at the Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain, including helicopter maintenance facilities and a drone control center
- Patriot air defense system, fuel tanks, and an AN/FPS early warning system at US facilities in Kuwait.
Strait of Hormuz tensions
On the night of July 12, Iran announced the complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz after several ships attempted to pass through via an unauthorized route.
Specifically, the Iranians attacked a container ship, bringing it to a halt. This prompted a retaliatory response from the US, which launched strikes against Iran. Meanwhile, CENTCOM stated yesterday that the Strait of Hormuz was open.
According to Axios, the White House is preparing for a multi-day or even multi-week exchange of strikes between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.
