US Navy launches drone operation to clear Strait of Hormuz, but one problem emerged
REMUS underwater drone (Photo: Wikimedia)
The US has launched an emergency operation to unblock the Strait of Hormuz. To combat Iranian mines, the Pentagon is deploying a fleet of underwater drones and aviation, reports Fox News.
Read also: Iranian oil tankers find ways to bypass US blockade, Bloomberg reports
Due to the decommissioning of most specialized minesweepers, the US finds itself in a vulnerable position. The US Navy is now going through a difficult transition period while also utilizing new technology, such as marine drones.
How unmanned mine clearance works
Ships do not blindly advance into minefields; instead, unmanned vehicles form the first reconnaissance wave. This allows the creation of a detailed map of the seabed.
The search process looks like this:
- Underwater torpedo drones: They move along a predetermined grid. High-resolution sonars photograph the seabed.
- Surface drones: These vessels tow sonars through narrow passages.
- Helicopters: Special sensors search for mines drifting close to the surface.
Despite the reliance on drones, the Pentagon is forced to bring back the old guard. In recent days, two Avenger-class ships have been spotted at sea — the USS Chief and USS Pioneer — which are urgently en route from Southeast Asia to the Middle East.
How long will it take to demine the Strait of Hormuz?
According to intelligence, Iran has placed at least ten mines in the strait. Some experts believe there are many more, and each one must not only be found but also destroyed.
Finding a mine is just the beginning. Neutralization takes much longer. Operators use remotely controlled robots that detonate mines in place or pierce their hulls.
Then, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams must manually clear the debris. This is critical for the safety of tankers.
The Pentagon has already warned Congress about the timeline. The operation could stretch to six months.
What is known about demining the Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump announced a sharp increase in pressure on Iran. He has ordered the Navy to fire on Iranian ships that are mining the strait.
Germany is preparing its fleet for a possible operation in the Strait of Hormuz. Relevant special ships are already being moved closer, but Berlin will only begin demining after a complete cessation of hostilities.
Meanwhile, Türkiye also wants to help demine the oil route. But this would happen after a possible peace agreement between Iran and the US.
