TEHRAN – Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani says sending the Alborz destroyer to the Red Sea aligns with Iran’s ongoing plans, such as escorting the country’s oil tankers.

During an interview with Iranian media, Irani discussed the Alborz destroyer's presence in the Red Sea, emphasizing its role in safeguarding Iran's oil tankers and ensuring maritime security in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.

He shared that 96th Naval Group was recently deployed, and 97th Naval Group will soon be on a mission.

The commander highlighted the purpose of deploying the naval group, emphasizing the promotion of peace, expressing readiness for interactions with various nations, reinforcing defense, and revitalizing naval capabilities.

Addressing the seizure of a U.S. oil tanker by Iran on January 11, the commander stated that the tanker's contents rightfully belong to Iran, and despite unjust actions, the country assertively reclaim what is theirs.

Irani underscored that any infringement on Iranian people's rights will be robustly responded to, in accordance with international norms and laws.

He spoke about the presence of the Pakistani naval group in the country, emphasizing that it represents a vital mission for the Iranian Navy, encompassing defensive strategy and maritime diplomatic defense. “Planned interactions with regional countries, including joint maritime exercises, are part of the ongoing efforts to achieve common goals, particularly in ensuring regional economic security,” he stated.

Discussing the role of drones in defense, the Iranian commander highlighted that unmanned aerial vehicles play a significant role, both generally and specifically in the aviation sector of the Navy. 

Iran’s Navy has in recent years achieved self-sufficiency in manufacturing surface and sub-surface vessels. It has also increased its presence in international waters to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers.