Iran Navy starts 6-day 'Velayat-91' naval exercises

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Bandar Abbas, Hormuzgan prov, Dec 28, IRNA -- Iranian Navy started 6-day 'Velayat 91' naval exercises in Iran's southern waters on Friday.

Navy commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari told reporters that it covers international waters in Gulf of Oman, Hormuz Strait, North of Indian Ocean, Aden Gulf and Bab el Mandeb Strait.

He said the 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.

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.

Sayyari in an interview with IRNA on Thursday had said that Iran's Navy would continue its presence in international waters.

9191**1424
Islamic Republic News Agency/IRNA NewsCode: 1033812