4. Naval Forces Iranian Military Capability 2011 Open Source Intelligence Project Independent and objective analysis of current Iranian military capability using open-source non-classified information. Assessments and views expressed represent those of the authors and are not affiliated with any special interest group or political agenda. Version 1.0 Jan 2011
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23mm AAA sites around the reactor complex perimitar with the northern side disecting the overall site. There are four
Skyguard 35mm AAA systems each with two Oerlikon GDF 35mm cannons and multiple single 35mm and 23mm sites
forming a haphazard outer ring.
4. Naval Forces
Iranian Military Capability 2011
Open Source Intelligence Project Independent and objective analysis of current Iranian military capability using open-source non-classified
information. Assessments and views expressed represent those of the authors and are not affiliated with any
special interest group or political agenda.
Version 1.0 Jan 2011
2
About the Project The Open Source Intelligence Project 2011 is an attempt to draw together the most salient bits of currently available
Open Source material to piece together a broad and largely complete analysis of Iranian military capability. Open Source
refers to unclassified, public sources.
The co-authors and reviewers come from a wide range of backgrounds, including in some cases extensive military
intelligence experiences and/or relevant specialist knowledge. However, their primary connection is an appreciation and
active participation in the Open Source intelligence scene. All those involved have contributed on an amateur/civilian
basis. Some have requested to remain anonymous, for various reasons, which we must respect.
The project was started in April 2010 and took months of writing, research, drafts and revisions to make it into the form
you are reading. We have attempted to provide a single text that will be easy to navigate and digest. However, it is the
work of multiple people and this may be apparent in different writing styles and minor formatting differences. We
apologize for this, but believe it is inevitable in this type of undertaking.
We hope that you find the document interesting and informative – we are hopeful that there is some information and
analysis which although open source in nature, is fresh and stimulating to even a highly informed reader.
Co-Authors (This Section, no order)
· ‘TLAM Strike’ (pseudonym)
· Anonymous (1)
Main Reviewer/Contributor (This Section)
· Anonymous (2)
· Anonymous (3)
Additional Reviewing Pool (No order)
· Sean O’Connor
· Anonymous (4)
· Galan Wright
3
4. Naval Forces
4.1 Overview
History: Iran's navy has though out its history been considered the most minor of its military
branches, although it has existed since 500 BC. During the Achaemenid Empire (650-330 BC), the
Iranian Navy was very powerful. Its operation to invade Greece under Xerxes easily ranks with the
Spanish Armada or Operation Overlord (the “D-Day” invasion) in terms of size, scope and preparation.
Its defeat at Salamis by the Athenian navy under Themistocles is one of the critical moments in the
formation of western culture, although most only know of this battle is from images of storm tossed
ships in the movie “300” about the battle of Thermopylae.
The modern Iranian Navy has been plagued by a history of poor organization and limited mission scope until the mid
20th century. Under Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi the Iranian Navy began a modernization campaign drawing
equipment from the western powers that resulted in the creation of the top navy in the Region. In 1970 Iran acquired
the WWII vintage British warship HMS Sluys a modified Battle class destroyer, this ship was recommissioned as the
Artemiz. Despite her age this vessel was the most powerful ship operated by any nation in the region, she joined the
four PF-103 class vessels already operated by Iran since the early 1960s. The next year the first Saam class Frigate (latter
renamed Alvand class) joined the Iranian Navy, these were the first high quality vessels to be operated by the Iranians.
As built they carried five Italian Sea Killer Anti-Shipping Missiles (ASMs), a British Seacat Surface to Air Missile (SAM)
system and a Squid Antisubmarine Warfare (ASW) mortar. As the standards of the time went, these were all advanced
weapons. The Saams could easily dominate the Gulf or Sea of Oman and operate well in to the Indian Ocean with its
Refueling At Sea capability.
During this time, the United States also begin providing naval weapons to Iran. Two 1950's vintage Tang class submarine
were sold to Iran- USS Trout and USS Wahoo, two more were to follow including USS Tang. Crews for the IINS Kousseh
and IINS Nahang, as they were to be named, were trained at the US Navy Submarine School at New London,
Connecticut. While at the end of their useful lives, these vessels t would still have provided substantial operational
training experience for the Iranians. These submarines never left the U.S. Their crews who were led by royalists,
abandoned them when the Shah fell. The U.S. also provided even older Gearing and Allen M. Sumner class destroyers at
this time and several Vietnam-era inshore patrol boats.
By the late 1970's, the Iranians received a large group of La Combattante-class missile boats armed with the U.S.
Harpoon anti-ship missile. Entrusting such a weapon to Iran clearly showed how much the US valued Iran at this time.
Four modified Spruance-class destroyers were laid down in U.S. shipyards for Iran, but never delivered. These vessels,
which were later called the Kidd-class were to be fitted with the latest weapons systems and were optimized for
operations in the Gulf. These were to serve as escorts for a light aircraft carrier equipped with U.S.-manufactured AV-8B
Harrier VTOL attack aircraft. German Type 209 submarines were also to be purchased. The only part of this ocean-going
strike force that actually made it into Iranian service was the British built replenishment vessel Kharg.
When the Shah fell and the current Islamic Republic was created, western support for Iran decreased . The majority of
warship transfers were halted; those that were actually transferred were either unarmed auxiliaries or patrol boats with
Current Iranian Navy Jack
4 missile systems removed. Iran’s new leaders distrusted the existing military leadership. Arrests and executions of Iranian
naval officers suspected of harboring loyalties to the Shah resulted in massive disruptions to the navy's command
structure. Moreover, the creation of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN, more formally known as the
Navy of the Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution took over part of the naval mission of the Iranian navy,
creating a schism in Iran’s naval operational efforts. With the IRGCN’s loyalties perceived as being higher than the
regular navy, the Iranian government has continued to favor it over the navy in funding and new equipment.
Sensing weakness in Iran, neighboring Iraq invaded, starting an eight- year war that
had dramatic consequences for the world. From the start, the Iranian navy was
engaged in sporadic fighting, mostly shelling Iraqi forces as they advanced. On
boats and six amphibious transport vessels) attacked two Iraqi oil rigs that were being
used as observation posts, destroying them. These ships went on to blockade Iraqi
ports. The Iraqi navy responded by dispatching five Osa missile boats and four P-4
torpedo boats. In the resulting skirmish, one Iranian missile boat was sunk, while two
Iraqi Osas were sunk and two MiG-23s shot down by missile and gun fire. Iranian air force jets arrived on-scene and
destroyed the remaining Iraqi vessels. In the air, the battle was just as one sided, one Iranian Phantom being damaged
and another downed, while one helicopter, one MiG-21 and four MiG-23s being downed by F-4 and F-14s. Eighty
percent of the Iraqi navy was lost on that day, November 28th, which as a result, is celebrated as Navy Day in Iran.
The next phase of the Iran-Iraq war forced the west to directly intervene in the region. In an attempt to disrupt the flow
of currency to Iraq, Iranian air and sea forces began to conduct attacks on merchant ships departing Iraq and Kuwait.
This operation became known in the west as “The Tanker War” and by the end in 1987, 546 ships had been damaged or
sunk and over 320 sailors killed missing or wounded. Iranian forces utilized a variety of methods against the merchant
vessels in the region. Naval weapons used during this time ranged from high-tech anti-ship missiles to low-tech mines.
Mines proved to be the most effective of all: the U.S. forces in the Gulf which had begun escorting convoys from Kuwait
as part of Operation Ernest Will had few countermeasures. U.S. forces spotted the Japanese-built landing ship Iran Ajr
was laying mines in the Gulf; U.S. helicopters strafed the ship causing the crew to abandon her. U.S. Naval Special
Warfare (SEALs) forces boarded her the next day securing evidence of the mining operation, capturing her crew and
then scuttling the ship. Following several clashes between U.S. forces and Iranian Boghammars and Boston Whalers the
conflict reached a climax, when USS Samuel B. Roberts struck a mine in the Gulf. U.S. forces retaliated with Operation
Praying Mantis.
The first target were the two Iranian oil platforms Saan and Siri, which were both destroyed. The Iranian Navy began
dispatching ships from Bandar Abbas, but these ships left one at a time, leaving themselves vunerable to being easily
intercepted and picked off by U.S. forces. First the missile boat Joshan exchanged fire with a U.S. Task Force and was
sunk. Second, the frigate Sahan was sunk after it fired on a U.S. A-6E strike aircraft with a SAM. Finally, the frigate
Sabalan was severely damaged in a U.S. air strike. Additionally, an Iranian Boghammar was destroyed and another
damaged.
The last major incident of the Tanker War occurred on July 3, 1988. This incident still looms over U.S.-Iranian relations
today. USS Vincennes and USS Montgomery investigated a call from a Pakistani merchant ship that was under attack by
Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ boats. The Vincennes's helicopter was dispatched ahead of the surface ships which had
spotted 13 Iranian gunboats. The helicopter was fired upon and two gunboats turned towards the U.S. warships. At this
time, an Iranian Navy P-3F Orion was observed in the area. During the resulting firefight an Airbus passenger jet, Iran Air
Current Iranian Naval Ensign. It is the same as their national flag
5 655, was misidentified as a Iranian Air Force F-14 Tomcat fighter and engaged with a missile resulting in the loss of 300
civilians.
Following the Iran-Iraq war, the Iranian navy began taking delivery of vessels and weapons from new sources. Between
1992 and 1996, Iran received three Russian Kilo-class submarines. These added a major new capability to the Iranian
Navy, at the time being highly capable and modern, with weapons that could destroy any warship encountered. Training
of crews, however, proved difficult since the crews trained in the U.S. for Iran's three Tang class submarines remained in
the U.S. It would take a decade before Iranian crews became proficient with these submarines, by which time they were
mostly obsolete.
The 1990s also saw China become a major supplier of naval equipment to Iran. Ten Houdong-class missile boats were
delivered to the IRGCN. China also provided one of the most significant Iranian acquisitions at that time, the C-802 anti
ship missile. These weapons were based on the French Exocet missile and highly capable. Different variants are
available, including surface (land or sea) launched, air-launched,
and submarine- launched (via torpedo tubes).
By the 2000s Iran, had started construction of a new warship
class named Mowj. This frigate took eight years to finish and
provided little added capabilities over its predecessors. A
indigenous submarine program also began at this time utilizing
North Korean expertise. So far, seven Ghadir class midget
submarines have been launched. A single Nahang submarine has
also been built and appears to be mostly of Iranian design.
Production of North Korean fast attack craft has resulted in two
classes being fielded by the IRGCN, the Peykapp and Tir, and
series of novel semi-submersible torpedo boats.
Rear Admiral Habiballah Sayyari. Source: İslâmi Davet News
6
4. 1.1 Organization Naval assets of Iran are split between the Navy and the naval section of the
Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution (IRGCN).
In general the Navy operates the larger assets and operates in a
‘conventional navy’ model, whereas the IRGCN operates smaller craft in an
‘Asymmetrical’ doctrine. Whilst the Navy is generally better equipped, the
IRGCN is growing more rapidly and catching up in many areas. Although
most major naval exercises feature units from both forces, many observers
believe that inter-service rivalry persists and for the most part they operate
independently, duplicating capabilities and splitting command.
The Navy is built on assets purchased from the west before the revolution, primarily from Britain, US and France. More
recently they have purchased submarines from USSR/Russia and have slowly been inducting locally designed and built
units into service. The IRGCN by comparison made major acquisitions from China and North Korea, and operates mostly
locally produced craft.
Currently the Navy is commanded by Rear Admiral Habiballah Sayyari, and the IRGCN by Rear Admiral Ali Morteza
Saffari. Since 2007 the Navy has transferred responsibility for all naval operations in the Persian Gulf and Straits of
Hormuz, although the Navy still operate there.
A. Persian Gulf and Straits of Hormuz. IRGCN primarily responsible
B. Gulf Of Oman, Arabian Sea and northern Indian Ocean down to 10 degrees parallel. Navy primarily
responsible
C. Southern Caspian Sea (Approx 20% of water mass). Navy primarily responsible
Rear Admiral Ali Morteza Saffari, commander of the IRGCN. Source Uskowi on Iran Blog
7
The Iranian navy has six enlisted ranks and eleven officer ranks. The IRGCN has nine enlisted ranks and eleven officer
ranks. The reasons for this disparity is not entirely clear, but may have to do with IRGC personnel being considered more
“politically reliable” and subject to promotion more frequently.
There are 18,000 current personnel in the Iranian Navy, who are divided up in to three divisions of service, 13,400 are in
the surface and subsurface Navy, 2,600 are Marines, and 2,000 are in Aviation. The IRGCN has slightly more personnel
than the navy with 20,000. Their personnel are not as highly trained and mostly operate small coastal boats.
Iranian sailors can be identified by their white uniforms similar to the US Navy
summer officer's uniforms. However Iranian enlisted sailors also wear white
uniforms albeit without shoulder boards. Enlisted sailors wear red chevrons with no
indication of rate. Duty uniforms are tan khakis for surface sailors, while
submariners wear light blue shirts and blue/black pants, a ship's crest can be found
on the left breast.
The Iranian Navy and Marines have their officers training academy in the city of
Sirjan. The academy is split in to a northern and southern facility and includes a nearby monument, a building made to
look like a Kaman class missile boat. There are firing ranges south of the city possibly for small arms training.
4.1.2 Recent and Current Operations
On August 22, 2006 the Iranian navy attacked a Romanian oil rig in the Persian Gulf and took control of it. News
reports say this was by the Iranian Navy but such actions would more likely be conducted by the IRGCN.
In late 2007 an Iranian Kilo class submarine surfaced half a mile from the Missile Cruiser USS Vicksburg which
was said to be operating in the Persian Gulf at the time. Some reports say that two Kilo submarines surfaced
near the Vicksburg.
On January 6, 2008 IRGCN small boats confronted US Navy warships in the Strait of Hormuz.
In 2008 Iranian navy forces participated in joint exercises with the Pakistani Navy.
Iran has deployed warships on anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden on five occasions since 2008. According to
İslâmi Davet news and Information Dissemination the first patrol was by 6 vessels including one frigate, the
second was by two vessels including the tanker Bandar Abbas and the “Destroyer Shahid Naqdi” (this maybe the
water tanker Sahid Marjani, or the Corvette Nghdi). The third patrol's vessels were the tanker Khark and the
Frigate Sabalan. The fourth patrol was by the frigate Alborz and the tanker Bushehr. The fifth fleet dispatched is
yet unknown, however the Frigate Alborz participated in at least two of the deployments. These patrols are not
coordinated with NATO forces operating on similar patrols in that region. Iranian officials have stated that these
patrols are to safeguard Iranian shipping passing though the region, these patrols began after the hijacking of
the Iranian chartered vessel MV Delight.
8
4.1.3 Strengths and Weaknesses
4.1.3.1 Relative Strengths Iran has among the largest littoral combat fleets with in
excess of 50 missile boats and hundreds more MLRS, mine
laying and gun boats. Most of these are operated by IRGCN.
The primary aim of this fleet is to enable Iran to “close the
Straits” thus blocking the major oil route. The economic and
geo-political implications of this have been widely discussed
and it remains a plausible military strategy. As well as
preventing passage of oil tankers through the Straits of
Hormuz, this would include harassing attacks on tankers in
the Persian Gulf, attacks on oil rigs and oil transfer facilities
and potentially attacks on shipping in the Gulf of Oman and
Arabian Sea. Relative to when similar tactics were employed
during the Iran-Iraq war, Iran is now vastly more capable of
carrying out such a mission and its vast fleet of small missile
craft and fast mine-layers represents a serious threat even to sophisticated navies.
Iran’s massive investment in shore-launched anti-ship missiles poses a serious threat to shipping and warships, as
demonstrated by the Hezbollah attack on an Israeli warship in 2006 using Iranian supplied systems.
Iran’s three Kilo-class submarines represent a significant anti-shipping threat in the Sea of Oman and Indian Ocean, and
are a capability beyond many otherwise comparable navies.
4.1.3.2 Relative weaknesses Iran is a ‘brown water’ navy with few ships capable of ocean-going military operations. Consequently Iran does not
practice such operations with any frequency.
Iranian warships are almost universally poorly equipped to counter air attack with no modern SAM systems fitted. In
general terms the Iranian navy is years behind almost every other similar sized navy in this regard. This is despite losing
two warships to US aircraft and missiles in ‘Operation Praying Mantis’ in 1988, and despite having opportunity to
purchase relevant systems from China and Russia during the 1990s.
The Iranian navy is also relatively underequipped to conduct anti-submarine warfare.
Iranian port facilities are generally well placed for offensive operations in the Gulf but more so represent easy targets for
enemy cruise missile and air attack. Geographically Iran lacks the reach to employ its naval assets to attack Israel, a key
potential adversary.
MIL-42 high speed patrol craft passing in front of a SINA class missile boat. In the foreground is a kayak used by special forces Commando for sabotage raids
9
4.1.3.3 Comparison to nearby navies Iran’s navy is significantly behind many regional navies in terms of larger warships, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia
fielding larger and more capable Frigates. Oman too has the edge in blue-water operations. Iran’s one strength in the
blue-water arena is its three Kilo-Class submarines, which are only matched by larger navies of which Pakistan’s and
Israel’s are the nearest. Iran does however have much larger and more capable littoral combat assets than any of its
neighbors and is only really rivaled by Pakistan, Russia and Israel in overall terms. The latter is least relevant since the
countries are too far apart for their littoral combat assets to play much part.
Going beyond Iran’s neighbors, Western navies also operate significant assets in the region. The US and European navies
far out-gun Iran particularly in blue-water combat.
4.1.3.4 Asymmetric warfare capability Iran invests heavily in asymmetrical warfare capabilities both as a show of defiance against the larger and more capable
US and Israel, and as a practical military strategy. Naval forces play a major part in this, particularly the IRGCN. General
asymmetrical tactics identified:
Use of small missile or torpedo fast attack craft (FAC) to attack warships and tankers in approaches to the Straits
of Hormuz, in the Straits themselves or in the Persian Gulf
Use of MLRS equipped small craft to harass and disable tankers in the straits of Hormuz or Persian Gulf
Use of small fast craft to lay floating mines directly in path of warships or tankers
Use of mobile shore-launched anti-ship missiles to damage or sink warships and tankers near to Iranian Coast
Use of midget submarines to lay mines, deploy combat swimmers or torpedo warships and tankers in the
Persian Gulf
Supply of shore based anti-ship missiles and/or FAC to Hezbollah and Syria for use against Israel in the event of
open hostilities
Boarding and capture of tankers or less well armed military vessels in Persian Gulf
Attacks on oil rigs and oil facilities by MLRS equipped small craft
Sowing of mines in Straits of Hormuz and Persian Gulf
Sabotage missions by combat divers in ports along the Persian Gulf or possibly Israel
Use of shore based heavy MLRS to harass and damage passing ships in Straits of Hormuz
Use of explosive motor boats to ram and sink vessels
IRGCN RIB-33 MLRS craft practice attacking a mock tanker with 107mm rockets in 2010. Source FARS
10
4.1.3.4.1 MLRS Craft Iran is one of the few countries to employ MLRS as an offensive anti-ship
weapon. The tactic was first used out of economy in the Iran-Iraq war but also
possibly influenced by the similarly equipped North Korean Navy. MLRS
mounted on small craft are generally inaccurate and lack the single-hit
firepower of anti-ship missiles or torpedoes, but can seriously damage
unarmed civilian traffic and certainly deter ships from sailing. In some
situations they could set the ship on fire or disable key machinery, but are
unlikely to actually sink a large civilian ship such as an oil tanker. Although
some exercises suggest the use of a flotilla of MLRS craft in a single attack, a
more typical engagement model would likely be a few such craft approaching
the transiting tanker and firing their rockets from about 500m away, slowing
down to about 1.5 times the target’s speed and weaving to allow alternate craft to fire whilst the other reload. Most
MLRS craft use the 107mm Haseb rocket (Chinese 'Type-63') but some, such as the C-14 class carry the larger BM-21
122mm system. Early MRLS craft had their rockets mounted such that they could only be fired to the sides, but more
recent designs nearly always position them on the cabin roof firing forwards.
Although estimates of MLRS craft numbers are difficult from open source evidence, the common understanding is that
numbers operated continues to grow even with the oldest units being retired.
4.1.3.4.2 Explosive Motor Boats MLRS craft are likely employed as cover for explosive motor boat or torpedo boat attacks. Iran operates a small and
poorly documented fleet of explosive motor boats which ram their targets to deliver a larger warhead than would be
carried by a missile or torpedo. Although characterized as ‘Suicide boats’ these are quite unlike the recent Al Qaeda
suicide boat attacks where the pilots are martyred in the attack, but rather are professional special forces craft where
the pilot escapes before impact by means of a jet ski. The jet ski . This is carried in the tail of the craft necessitating a
specialized boat design. In many respects these craft are the modern equivalent of the Explosive Motor Boats used by
the Italian X-MAS in WWII.
4.1.3.4.3 Midget Submarines Another major focus is the rapid expansion of Iran’s midget submarine fleet in Persian Gulf. The main type is the IS-120
Ghadir class originally imported from North Korea, of which at least 11 are in service. The IS-120 is the export version of
the MS-29 Yono class which is often attributed with the sinking of the South Korean corvette Cheonan in March 2010.
Generic MLRS attack on tanker by two small craft
11
2 newly delivered IS-120 Ghadir Class midget submarines in Bostanu, summer 2010. Source IRNA.
The IS-120s are ideal for limited operations in the Persian Gulf which is too shallow for Iran’s Kilo Class submarines to
operate effectively. The Ghadir carries two 533mm torpedoes which are capable of disabling or sinking even large
warships including carriers. The midget submarines’ low maximum speed and weak sensor fit make them unsuitable for
hunting other submarines, but they can pose a very serious threat to any vessels in the Persian Gulf if employed
professionally.
4.1.3.4.4 Mine Laying Iran has a large number of mines and an increasing array of
delivery means making them likely more effective than when
Iran employed them in the Iran-Iraq war. Western navies have
made advances in mines countermeasures but they remain a
serious threat. Iran has experimented the tactic of using small
craft to lay mines directly in the path of warships as
demonstrated in a mock attack on a passing US warship. The
viability of this tactic is open to question against warships
which could easily deter or sink the small craft with gunfire,
but would be effective against oil tankers which cannot
maneuver easily. Because of their large warheads mines, like
torpedoes, have a very real potential to sink even large ships.
4.1.3.4.5 Fast Attack Craft (FAC) Iran continues to expand its already large fleet of missile craft and torpedo boats. Many of these craft are generally
smaller than FACs used by other navies and carry much smaller missiles which are less capable of sinking ships. Where
torpedoes are carried (often in conjunction with missiles), they are lightweight torpedoes which are also generally
unlikely to sink larger ships. Notable excepts include the Tir class and Tarlan class torpedo boats which can carry
heavyweight torpedoes including the Russian supplied Shkval (‘Hoot’) rocket torpedo. The relatively poor sea keeping,
Iranian marines practice sowing moored mines. Source FARS
12
and short range missiles with limited over-the-horizon targeting
capability makes these craft only really effective within the
confines of the Persian Gulf. In that arena however the sheer
number of craft makes them a very real threat.
To counter this threat it has been hypothesized (and to an
extent practiced) that ship board helicopters armed with light
anti-ship missiles such as Penguin, AS-15-TT or Sea Skua can
usually sink the approaching fast attack craft before they fire
their missiles. Similarly land based attack helicopters armed
with rockets and anti-tank missiles would pose a viable
alternative, as would multi-purpose rockets with sub-munitions. This offers an effective counter to Iranian FACs when
encountered in small numbers by navies equipped with suitable helicopters, but the sheer size of Iran FAC fleet makes
this a much harder task.
Iran has occupied several small islands on the northern approaches (ie Persian Gulf side) of Straits of Hormuz. These are
heavily fortified with air strips, SAM/AAA sites and port facilities for small craft. They are likely launch sites for shore
based anti-ship missiles.
Bavar class missile/torpedo boat typical of Iran's rapidly expanding FAC fleet. Source FARS
13
4.2 Equipment
Summary table of Combatants:
Figures in orange are estimates as of September 2010.
Excludes MLRS and similar light craft
Expected near-term changes · An additional Mowj class corvette is believed to be under construction for service in the Caspian Sea, with
launch expected in 2011.
· 2011 is likely to see the continued building of Ghadir Class midget submarines with year-end 2011 figures of
between 12 and 15
14
4.2.1 Submarines
Paltus class, Project 877EKM (NATO Designation: KILO Class)
Crew: 2 (some reports claim up to 7 additional divers but this is unrealistic)
Weapons: up to 17 Limpet mines
A “chariot” design showing European influences and typical of special forces insertion vehicles, the type is only suitable
for coastal operations, but can perform sabotage, reconnaissance and counter-diver operations. At least 6 variations
exist and it is likely that each craft is unique. The earliest example had an enclosed cockpit but later version omit this.
The nose likely carries an obstacle avoidance sonar. One version features a folding communications / sensor mast.
Al-Sabehat 15 SDV. Source ISNA
The type can be launched from a ship or under-slung from a large helicopter (Sea King, Mi-8 Hip or Chinook). It could
23
also be carried externally on a larger submarine or towed behind one but neither scenario has been observed.
e Ghavasi class Chariot Quantity in Service: ? 1 Dimensions: L 7m Weight: (est) 3 tons (armed) Crew: 2 Weapons: TBC. Likely limpet mines carried by divers. Some observers speculate that it is designed to carry a single 533mm torpedo under the body.
24
Relatively little is known of this two-man "wet sub". It has a notch out of the bottom which some observers suspect may be designed to carry a single heavyweight torpedo semi-recessed. This is unconfirmed and difficult to conceive being used effectively – however no better explanation has been found for this feature. The two crew members use frogman apparatus to breath and it is not clear if they are provided with a separate closed-circuit system for use whilst in the craft. The clear nosecone appears to be for the driver to see where they are going when underwater, presumably crouched inside the hull. The small forward control planes are probably hand operated by the driver.
Photo: IRNA\
Iranian combat swimmers / commandoes / saboteurs Both the Navy and IRGCN maintain special forces capable of diving. Capabilities likely include pre-landing beach
reconnaissance (beach samples etc), sabotage of enemy vessels with limpet mines or similar charges, recovery of items
of interest from shallow waters, sabotage of undersea cables and pipelines, and commando raids against shore targets.
The forces practice all main modes of delivery although some may only be practiced infrequently:
Swimmer Delivery vehicles (wet submarines – see Al Sabehat-15 and e Ghavasi
Deployment from submarines (Kilo, Nahong and Ghadir)
Use of underwater diver propulsion devices (DPVs)
Deployment from small craft such as zodiacs, and potentially including semi-submersibles
Helicopter
Military operated civilian vessels (ie Dows)
Kayaks
25
IRGCN combat swimmers parade in an inflatable boat (‘Zodiak’). Attached at the rear are two diver propulsion devices (DPVs),
probably commercially acquired Aquazepp types. Source FARS
Folding Special Forces Kayaks. Source FARS
26
4.2.2 Major Warships
Alvand Class corvette
These vessels are the Vosper Mk5-type frigate, a commercial export designi. They were the most advanced warships in
the region when launched. They have seen combat several times in their lives and due to numerous refits they remain in
service. These frigates were used during the 1971 Iranian invasion of the Abu Mush and Tonb islands. The 1980's saw
extensive use of the Alvands, Alvand unsuccessfully engaged and Iraqi Osa class PTG with a Sea Killer in 1980, Saam also
shelled Iraqi troops advancing in to Iran. In March 1984 Sabalan sunk the tanker Sedara with a Sea Killer and damaged
the MV Five Brooks that October. In 1987 Sabalan attacked a Japanese tanker with gun fire aimed at her bridge and crew
quarters, these actions made her and her commanding officer Lt. Cdr. Abdollah Manavi (or Capitan Nasty has he was
sometimes called) some of the US Navy's “Most Wanted”. Following the mining of the USS Samuel B Robers the US
launched operation Praying Mantis, US Navy aircraft spotted the Sahand leaving Bandar Abbas, the US aircraft was then
attacked with a Seacat missile. A-6E Intruders from the USS Enterprise attacked and sank the frigate with Harpoon,
Skipper and GBU-10 weapons. Sahand was also observed leaving port and bombed with a GBU-12 by an A-6E and left
adrift. US forces were ordered to disengage and tugs helped back to port. It took 3 ½ years to repair Sahand.
The arms embargo on Iran has serious implications on
these vessels, all their systems were of either British or
Italian origin. The first system to go was the Seacat
SAM in 1988 it was replaced by a ZU-23 AA gun. In
1991 the Sea Killer SSM system was refitted to launch
BM-21 artillery rockets and the ZU-23 was replaced by
a GAM-B01 20mm cannon, 2 additional cannons of this
type were added in 1992 in place of the ship's older
model lifeboats. In 1996 the Seakiller SSM system was
totally removed and box launchers for the C-802
missile were added. The latest refit of the Alborz
increased the ASW capability of the Alvands with the
addition of 2 triple 324mm torpedo tubes. A helicopter
replenishment station was also added which forced the
removal of the Mk4 Squid ASW mortar. As yet no photos show Alvand or Sabalan with the Alborz ASW refit.
Alvand class firing C802 SSM. Source ISNA
27 Despite their age all three of these frigates are still active. In 2004 Alvand made port call in Pakistan and India. In 2009
Alborz conducted its 2nd anti-piracy patrol in the Gulf of Aden.
Obviously these vessels are handicapped by a total lack of air defense missiles and a Close-in Weapons Systems (CIWS).
Although they can operate in the open sea and are the only ships (besides maybe the Mowj) capable of RAS
(Replenishment at Sea) their limited combat capability restricts them to operations in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman
where they can be protected by aircraft and SAMs from shore. Interesting is the addition of ASW torpedoes on the
Alborz, while the US Navy and others have begun abandoning the 324mm SVTT system in favor or ASW
Helicopters/Drones and ASROCs. Most current submarine heavy weight torpedoes feature maximum ranges far in
excess of the maximum range of any torpedo fired from the SVTTs. One answer is that they are being utilized as anti-
torpedo weapons, but it is unclear whether the Chinese supplied torpedoes have that level of sophistication.
Mowj Class corvette (/Moudge) Specifications
Displacement: 1,400 tons
Dimensions: L 94m, W 10m, Dr 3.25m (Actual dimensions
may be almost exactly as per Alvand)
Crew: 120-140
Speed: 28kt+
Powerplant: 2 x 10,000hp diesels
Armament: 4 x C-802 “Noor” anti-ship missiles, 4 x Standard
SM-1 SAM, 1 x 76mm Gun, 2 x (manned) GAM-BO1 20mm
cannon, 1 x Bofors 40mm AAA (upgraded), 2 x triple 12.7mm
lightweight torpedoes, MANPADs probably carried.
Helicopters: Landing pad only
Only one Mowj class corvette is in service, Jamaran, but another is under construction.
Unlike the Alvand class the Mowj only utilizes diesel engines resulting in a lower top speed but reducing engineering
complexity. The ship is also fitted with fin stabilizers allowing for operations in high sea states.
Mowj Class. Source MEHR
28 The Mowj has the standard complement of radars and EW systems, the surface and air search radar are quite large for a
vessel its size. A fire control radar can be seen atop the bridge, this could be used for both the 76mm gun and for the
SM-1 Standard missile system. Additionally EW and ECM systems can be seen in pictures of the vessel.
Sonar fit is difficult to determine as no photos of the ship in dock have been made available. Inasmuch as these vessels
are essentially unlicensed copies of the Vosper Thornycroft Mark 5, it might be reasonable to expect a sonar fit would
follow the same layout as the original model. The one photo of a large model of the ship does not show any sonar fit but
this may be a simple omission. The mounting of two torpedo mounts indicates some sort of submarine detection
capability. The design of the bow would preclude the fitting of an bow sonar since the anchors would not clear it when
deployed so a hull mounted sonar would be likely (as per the US Oliver Hazard Perry class). The exact nature of the sonar
is unclear however both the Alvands and Bayandors are equipped with hull mounted sonars, and the decommissioned
Battle and Gearing class destroyers were also so equipped. The best guess on the nature of the system would be that its
a active and passive system with a active transmission capability in the Medium Frequency range (probably around 15
kHz as per the Alvand's Graesby Type 170B set or perhaps around 10 kHz as per the Artemiz's Plessey PMS-26 set.)
IRIS Jamaran firing a C802 SSM. Source FARS
The weapons fit of this vessel is almost identical in capabilities to the Alvand but with a few changes mostly in location of
certain systems.
The ‘A’ position gun has been changed to a smaller 76mm gun, interesting is the absence of a optical director on the gun
itself as per the modified Bayandor class vessel. The ‘Y’ position AA gun has been relocated closer to the funnel to allow
for a helicopter pad and has been changed from a 35mm twin mount to a single Fath-40 mm mount. Two GAM-B01
20mm guns are fitted forward of the bridge in the B position as opposed to the single on the Alvand.
The ASM launchers have been moved to the superstructure to allow for a helicopter deck. This may present a problem
by making the ship top heavy. Four SM-1 missile launchers appear to have been fitted between the Y position mount
and the funnel.
29
Two torpedo mounts are mounted below the Y position gun. These are covered by an extension of the upper deck which
will no doubt make servicing and loading them in foul weather easier (similar mounts on US ships are exposed to the
elements). Torpedoes for these mounts could be either surplus US Mk 44 or Mk 46 weapons or new Chinese Yu-7
torpedoes.
The Mowj class, whist an improvement of the Alvand class, still suffers several faults. Air defense is still lacking; the
addition of 4 SM-1 Standard SAMs is an improvement the unusual placement limits their effectiveness, only two missiles
can fire per side and they have major blind spots forward and aft. In fact due to the placement of the funnel the fire
control radar (FCR) does not have a line of sight against any targets astern of the vessel meaning the SM-1s cannot
defend the stern quarter of the ship and the forward quarter has limited to no coverage especially at close ranges.
Additionally on the subject of air defense the ship's air search radar is quite low to the superstructure of the ship making
its possible horizon less than on other ships. This becomes a major problem when dealing with sea skimming missiles or
low flying aircraft.
ASW systems suffer from the same faults as the Alvand, the 2 triple 324mm SVTTs provide limited protection and due to
the design of the bow a large bow sonar (like on the Arlegh Burkes) cannot be fitted. If any sonar is fitted its probably a
smaller hull mounted array like on the Alvands. However the addition of a Helicopter landing pad suitable for a AB-214
does allow the Mowj to engage submarines from beyond their torpedo range. The apparent lack of a towed array sonar
or VDS makes this doubtful operationally, more likely the helicopter would be used for OTH targeting of SSMs and
general utility duties. The renewed focus on ASW on Iranian ships (The Alvand, Mowj and Naghdi all now carry 324mm
torpedoes) is puzzling. While Iran's primary threat the US operates the second largest active fleet of submarines in the
world, a Cold War vintage defensive system appears quite pathetic in view of potential alternatives such as Russian style
533mm torpedo mounts capable of firing both torpedoes or ASROCs (as fitted to the Neustrashimy) or the ASROC
version of the C-801 (designated CY-1).
Hamzeh Corvette
Specification
30 Displacement: 580 tons
Dimensions: L 52m, W 7.65m, Dr 3.25m
Crew: ??
Speed: 15kt
Powerplant: 2 x 1,300hp diesels
Armament: 4 x C-802 “Noor” anti-ship missiles, 1 x main gun (20mm?), 2 x 12.7mm manned heavy machine guns
Originally the Imperial Government Yacht “Shah Savar,” , the Hamzeh has been modified to carry C-802 anti-ship missiles
and light defenses. Main role probably remains training. The boat operates in the Caspian Sea alongside the SINA missile
boats. Confusingly the first widespread pictures of her post-refit where accompanying an Iranian press article
announcing the entry into service of the SINA type “corvette” Joshan, causing some confusion as to this boat’s identity.
The pennant number appears to have changed also.
Despite a popular press photo showing an AB-212 helicopter, the Hamzeh does not have a helipad.
Approximately four new monohull patrol craft, possibly built
in China, were reportedly delivered in 2006. Armed with both anti-ship missiles and torpedoes.
Kajami class (Taedong-B) Submersible Torpedo Boat
Specifications
Quantity in service: 1 (est)
Length: 17m
Armament: 2 x lightweight 324mm (12.75”)
torpedoes
Submerged depth: 25m (est)
Surface speed: 40kts (est)
Submerged speed: 4kts (est)
Iran is reported to operate a small number of
North Korean designed Taedong-B
submersible attack craft delivered in 2002.
There is no evidence or indication of local
production.
It is likely that the type’s is a later model of I-SILC
(Improved Submersible infiltration Craft). In evolutionary terms the Kajami appears to be a lengthened version of the
I_SILCs supplied to Vietnam with torpedoes added. Unlike the Vietnamese examples, the Kajami does not have electric-
driven outboard motors on the rear hydroplanes, suggesting that like the older I-SILC the Kajami cannot travel forward
when fully submerged –this has proved a fatal flaw in North Korean service. propellers In North Korean service at least
they aren't intended for use against enemy naval combatants, but can carry weapons for self-defense.
Mk-13. Source Sino Defense Forum
Kajami submersible boat. Source FARS
37 The Kajami’s twin lightweight torpedo tubes are not particularly viable as offensive anti-shipping weapons. Despite
these torpedo tubes, the Kajamis are out of place in the IRGCN compared to many of the rest of that organizations' fast
attack craft. Unlike the other DPRK-supplied semisubmersibles, the Gahjaes, since the Kajamis' single appearance in the
open press, they have never since surfaced publicly that they have been less than successful in IRGCN service.
The Kajami, like the rest of the I-SILCs is very poorly laid out as a combatant. It's fully submersible to about 10-20
meters, but in order to do so, the crew has to relocate from the open cockpit aft to a smaller control compartment
amidships. This is less of an issue when conducting a carefully-rehearsed infiltration mission in low light conditions, but
less practical during combat.
The torpedo-armed Kajamis' purchase probably reflected aggressive salesmanship and marketing on the part of the
North Koreans, and inexperience on the Iranians' part. It’s possible that the Iranians may have considered Kajami as an
alternative to more 'conventional' mini submarines, but found it very impractical and finalized their decision upon
Ghadir instead.
Alternatively, and not mutually exclusive, the Kajami could also simply reflect the current state of I-SILC development,
and the torpedo tubes are simply more potent defensive weapons added in light of losses incurred during failed
infiltrations of South Korea over the past decades. In this case, the Kajami would simply be the current I-SILC variant.
Recently available satellite imagery of a Kajami in a North Korean port substantiates the North Korean origin of the type
and provided some more information on the layout and dimensions.
38
Gahjae Class (Taedong-C) Semi-Submersible Torpedo Boat
Specifications:
Quantity in service: 5 (est)
Length: 17m
Armament: 2 x lightweight 324mm (12.75”)
torpedoes
Speed (fully surfaced): 40kts (est)
Closely resembling the Peykaap torpedo boat (see
separate entry) the Gahjae class is semi-submersible
able to run awash with only the upper superstructure
and exhausts above the water. This mode of
operation is typical of North Korean infiltration craft
on which it’s based. Originally only 2 examples were thought to have been imported from DPRK but there are at least 3
craft now in service so some degree of local production is now taking place.
Although these boats offer some novel tactical opportunities for Iran, they are unlikely to be successful if operating
against larger warships armed with their own anti-submarine torpedoes, or fast moving targets. The lightweight
torpedoes are unlikely to sink even a modest warship although obviously a successful attack could immobilize even a
large warship.
IPS-18 Tir Class torpedo boat
Specifications:
Quantity in Service: 10
Displacement: 28.16 tons
Dimensions: L 21.12m, W 5.77m, Dr 0.87m H 2.1m
Crew: 6
Endurance: 450nm
Gahjae Class. Source MEHR
IPS-18. Source DPRK Gov
39 Speed: 52kt
Powerplant: 3 x 1200hp
Armament: 2 x 533mm (21”) torpedo tubes, 1 x manned 12.7mm HMG
Of North Korean origin, these small fast attack boats are clearly designed with radar cross-section reduction in mind,
particularly from the forward hemisphere. A retractable radar mast further enhances their ability to hide amongst the
clutter of small fishing boats and otherwise inconspicuous minor radar reflections. This stealthiness is lost when the
boats are at high speed due to the large amount of spray produced by the surface-piercing propellers. Further, the
stealthiness does not extend to the infrared spectrum though, with raw exhausts venting out of the rear of the boat. The
only defensive weapons position well thought out in this regard, being a single pedestal mounted 12.7mm heavy
machine gun which is externally crewed.
In the right circumstances these boats represent a serious threat, but they have limited sea keeping, endurance and
sensors thus limiting their combat potential in a wider conflict.
They are potentially armed with Shkval rocket torpedo (range about 6-8km), but more likely carry North Korean
heavyweight torpedoes (estimated combat range about 10km). Although unconfirmed, the most likely torpedo is the PT-
97W.
Iran also produced a C-802 Noor missile armed version known as Tir-II which has been exported to Syria. This version is
not thought to be in service with Iran. Recent press briefs suggest that the Tir class is being locally produced to a
minimally modernized form for the IRGCN.
40
IPS-16 Family fast attack craft Peyaap, Bavar, Zolaghar. For Gahjae see above.
Originally imported from North Korea, Iran has locally produced large numbers in several modified forms. The original
form is a low-observable torpedo boat but more recent versions are more conventional small missile craft, sometimes
armed with both missiles and torpedoes.
Specifications:
Quantity in Service:
Paykaap – 10 imported + 10 (est) locally produced
Bavar – 10 (est)
Zolfaghar – 10 (est)
Displacement (Peykaap): 13.75 tons
Dimensions: L 16.3m, W 3.75m, Dr 0.67m H 1.93m
Crew: 3
Endurance: 320nm
Speed: 52kt
Powerplant: 2 x 1200hp
Armament: (Peykaap) 2 x 324mm (12.75”) torpedo tubes, small-arms, (Bavar) 2 x C-701 'Kowsar' light anti-ship missiles,
2 x 324mm (12.75”) torpedo tubes, small arms. (Zolfaghar) 2 x C-704 ‘Nasr’ light anti-ship missiles, 2 x DShK 12.7m MG.
The sloping lines and ‘pop-out’ torpedo
tubes appears to have rudimentary stealth
characteristics although little attention has
been paid to the IR spectrum, and the type
has poor stealth at high speeds due to the
surface piercing propellers. The slight bulge
on top of the torpedo tubes is probably the
compressed air cylinder used to eject the
torpedo from the tube, and its position
makes it very possible that the torpedo
tubes are exactly the same as those on the
Taedong-B. The torpedoes used are likely of
North Korean design and are inadequate to
sink, or even seriously damage, warships.
For this reason most recent versions carry light
anti-ship missiles.
The small size, high speed and somewhat low radar signature make this type a potent adversary, but it lacks any
meaningful self-defense weaponry should an enemy attempt to engage it. Its lightweight torpedoes are probably
inadequate to sink most warships.
IPS-16 Peykaap class. Source Diomil
41
The Bavar (Peykaap-II) has a significantly
redesigned cabin, mast and additionally has two
light anti-ship missiles on it. The Bavar is less
stealthy than the Peykaap and probably has a lower
performance.
In 2010 the latest “Zolfaghar’ version was unveiled
featuring a lengthened hull and ability to carry two
of the slightly larger C-704 ‘Nasr’ anti-ship missiles.
The Zolfaghar also has a DShK MG mount on the
forward hull.
Unpainted Zolfaghar showing Nasr missiles. Source
Borna.
42
Recent image of a Bavar version without missile bins fitted. Source FARS
Dalaam class torpedo boat
Small torpedo craft capable of firing Shkval (Hoot) rocket torpedoes. Small open cockpit without windows. Closely
related to Tarlan class but with different bow. Cockpit is open, and no radar or other sensors are visible. Status
unknown.
43
Tarlan class torpedo boat
Specifications:
Number is service: 15 (est)
D: 8.5 tons
S: 58 knots
Dim: 11.9x3.1x1.5
Range: 250 nm.
Armament: 1 Hoot Rocket Torpedo or
other 533mm weapon. Pedestal for single
DShK 12.7mm HMG
Electronics: Unknown Radar
Crew: 2
Machinery: 2 660hp motors.
Tarlan is a semi-submersible catamaran built of aluminum. These patrol boats were demonstrated to have the capacity
to fire Hoot torpedoes in the Great Prophet 5 exercises in April of 2010. Although the design has three tubes in between
the hulls, it is unlikely that it can carry three 533mm torpedoes due yto their weight, even less likely 3 of the heavier
‘Hoot’ rocket torpedoes.
Source Diomil
44
Explosive motor Boats The IRGCN operates explosive-laden speed boats which attack their targets by means of ramming. This concept is not
unique, having been employed by the Imperial Japanese navy and more recently by LTTE (Tamil Tigers) and Al Qaeda.
Where the Iranian examples differ is that the crew is not sacrificed in the attack. This allows the crew to be extensively
trained ‘special forces’ in many respects similar to elite units who conduct combat swimmer operations.
Although ‘suicide boats’ are often discussed as an IRGCN tactic, very little is known about the specifics of the designs in
unclassified sources. Some footage of a design does exist and it is possible to produce a reasonable provisional
illustration which is representative of the only documented type.
Specifications
Length: 9m (est)
Width: 2.2m
Height (overall): 2.1m
Powerplant: 2 x Yamaha VX250 250hp outboards
45 Escape: 1 x Yamaha Waverunner VX Sport jet ski
Warhead: 500kg shaped charge (est)
The pilot rides on top of a civilian purchased Jet Ski which is housed in dock at the rear of the craft, not unlike the docks
in amphibious assault ships, such that the jet ski can exit aft whilst the craft continues towards the target. The craft
carries no radar or advanced sensors, and does not appear to have means of remote control once the pilot has escaped.
The warhead is unknown but likely to be an impact-detonated shaped charge similar to those used in roadside bombs in
Iraq.
Video screen capture of explosive motorboats under construction. Source IRIB3
46
Seraj-1Class (Bladerunner) MLRS boat Entering service in mid 2010, the Seraj-1 is an armed
adaptation of the British Bladerunner-35 racing and
sports boat. A closely related design, the
Bladerunner-51, holds the Round Britain World
Record set in 2005 and is arguably the fastest speed
boat in production. The Bladerunner series feature a
specialized hull design known for its ability to
maintain very high speeds for relatively great
distances and in rougher sea states than most similar
sized craft.
In Iranian service the Bladerunner has had a DShK
12.7mm MG mounted on the bow and a 107mm
MLRS mounted above the cockpit. The added weight
of this configuration likely reduces the maximum
speed. Although racing versions can manage 79kts, standard ‘Grand Tourer’ versions max at 62kts. The Iranian version is
probably closer to 50kts.
The Seraj-1 is unlikely to be in widespread operational
use for some time but is in production with several
hulls seen in various states of completion.
Specifications:
Length: 10.6 m
Beam: 2.9 m
Draft: 0.75 m
Displacement: 2,5 t
Fuel: 405 L
Powerplant: 2 x outboard motors (details TBC).
Fabio Buzzi high speed patrol boats The IRGC purchased several high speed patrol boats from Italian designer Fabio Buzzi who also supplies many Western
nations including Britain’s SBS. The designs come in both regular and Rigid Inflatable (RIB) configurations. The craft are
being locally produced and offered for export. Used by the IRGCN, only the MIL-40 and RIB-33 versions appear in
widespread service.
It is possible that Iran also transferred the hull and drive technology to North Korea as key hull features are also seen on
the North Korean IPS-16 and IPS-18 families in service with IRGC. An alternative hypothesis is that these features are
only incorporated into Iranian produced examples.
Seraj-1. Source Borna
Seraj-1. Source Borna
47
FB RIB-33 high speed patrol boats Fabio Buzzi designs locally produced in Iran, these are rigid
inflatable boat (RIB) are increasingly active with IRGCN. The
most recent examples have a significantly modified
superstructure allowing carriage of an MLRS and radar.
Specifications (RIB-33)
Length: 10m
Beam: 2.7m
Draft: 0.6m
Speed: Claimed 57 kts but likely slower with MLRS
Powerplant: 2 x Yamaha 250 hp outboards
Displacement: 3.2+ tons
Crew: 3
Armament: 1 x 11-barrel 107mm MLRS
FB MIL-40 MLRS craft Fabio Buzzi designed High Speed Patrol Boat (HSPB)
produced by MIG.
Specifications
Length: 12.9m
Beam: 2.6m
Draft: 0.8m
Speed: 62 kts
Powerplant: 2 x 660 hp
Displacement: 6 tons
Crew: 3
Armament: 1 x 11-barrel 107mm MLRS, 1 x DShK 12.7mm
HMG
MIL-55 HSPB Largest of the Fabio Buzzi designs used by Iran, the MIL-55 can accommodate 15 persons. Reportedly capable of carrying
107mm MRLS as per other FB types in Iranian service.
Specifications
Length: 16.4m
Beam: 2.9m
Draft: 0.8m
Speed: 68 kts
Powerplant: 2 x 1,200 hp
Displacement: 15.3 tons
Crew: 5
RIB-33. Source: FARS
MIL-40. Source FARS
48 Armament: 1 x 11-barrel 107mm MLRS, 1 x DShK 12.7mm HMG, mines
FB MIL-55. Source FARS
Torough Class PB (Boghammar)
A Swedish designed craft sold to Iran for Customs
purposes but quickly militarized on delivery and
copied. They can be armed with MLRS, Machine
guns, Recoilless Rifles, RPGs, Small Arms and Sea
Mines. A landing craft version is also in use.
Specifications:
Length: 12.8m
49 Displacement: 6.4 tons
Speed: 45kts
Armament: 1 x 12.7mm MG and 1 x 107mm MLRS (typical).
Ashura class (MIG-G-0800 )
Legacy assets like the Boghammar, these
small boats were used for mine laying and
MLRS attacks during the Iran-Iraq war and
formed the bulk of the MLRS boat fleet
during the 1990s. Still widely deployed, they
are however overshadowed by more recent
designs.
Often referred to as “Boston Whalers” due to
their similarity to the commercial boats of
that firm, these small fiberglass craft feature
a ‘Hickman sea sled’ hull and twin outboard
motors.
Armament is 1 12.7mm DShK-38 HMG
forward. A weapons “table” center for either
a 12 tube 107mm rocket launcher or a single
M-08 or similar mine Other weapons could
include 107mm Recoilless Rockets, RPG-7
launchers, small arms. It is powered by two
50 outboard motors.
In 2010 a version armed with four contact mines was displayed. This craft appears to be utilized by the IRIN and can
carry as an alternative fit a DShK HMG and a squad of marines.
Compared to similar Iranian designs they are identifiable by the raised and flared bow lines.
Ashura class PB. Source FARS Ashura class armed with mines. Source FARS
Type-4 high speed patrol boats (HSPB) The IRGCN operates a large fleet of Type-4 speedboats. These are generic fast boats employed much like the Ashura
class, possibly representing a successor design. The type is typically seen in a distinctive bright blue paint scheme but has
been operated in other schemes. Most famously a variant of this type was used during the January 6, 2008 incident
between 5 IRGC-N speedboats and American warships in which the Type-4 simulated laying mines directly in the path of
a warship. The type-4 in that incident had an enlarged fore-deck relative to previously noted versions.
Source US Gov
51
Murce MIG-G-0900 Number in service: 20
Similar to Boghammar, these are flat-bottomed craft suitable for marshland operations near the Iraqi border. They are
armed with 107mm MLRS and 12.7mm DShK machine gun.
Unknown MLRS Craft The operational service of this type is unclear; it is possibly only a test craft for MLRS. The craft is around 9-10m long and
features a tunnel-hull (catamaran). It is armed with a HM-23 16 barrel 122mm MLRS. No other weapons are known.
Main machinery: 2 diesels; 2,400 hp (1.8 MW); surface piercing propeller
Speed, knots: 50 approx
Complement: 5
Guns: 1-23 mm. 1-12.7 mm MG.
Probably a development of the C 14 class design, the
catamaran-hulled inshore patrol craft. A MRL launcher may
also be mounted on the cabin roof.
54
Peterson PBI
Specifications:
Number in service: 30
D: 20.1 tons full
S: 26 knots
Dim: 19.78x5.5x1.8
ARMAMENT: 2 12.7mm Machine Guns.
Crew: 5
Machinery: Diesels, 3 3-blade props.
US built patrol boats. Single round Tigercat SSM launcher and associated datalink removed.
MK II PBR
Specifications
Number in service: 6
Dim: 9.8x3.5x.61
S: 28.5 knots
Armament: Twin .50 cal machine gun in rotating tub. Rear single .50 cal HMG. 1 M60 MMG, 1 MK 19 AGL. Ceramic
armor fitted to guns and bridge.
Crew : 4
Machinery: 2 220 hp Detroit Diesels 6V53N. 3 nozzle Jacuzzi Brothers water jet.
Vietnam war vintage US Patrol Boats made famous in the movie Apocalypse Now. Suitable only for patrols inshore or in
river areas, suitable areas in Iran include the Shat al Arab or the marshes on the northern side of Qeshm Island. Not seen
in the press and may not be operational.
Sewart Vessels in Service:
5001 MAHNAVI HAMRAZ 1
5002 MAHNAVI TAHERI
5003 MAHNAVI VAHEDI
5004 MARDJAN
5005 MORVARID
5006 SADAF
Most serve in the Caspian Sea at Bandar Pahlavi. Some are operated by the Iranian Coast Guard.
55
Naser class logistics/support boat At least two IRGCN craft of a new type recently visited Qatar and there have been news releases of further deliveries in
2011. The cract is built by the Arvandan Company and features a large superstructure with sloping front but almost
vertical sides generally similar to commercial craft. The type appears unarmed but is equipped with an electro-optical
sensor ball and surface search radar.
Specifications
Length: 32m, width: 7.8m
Speed: 27 kts
Powerplant: 2 x 1135hp diesel
This is the first ‘peace-time’ craft seen in IRGCN service indicating the maturing of the force’s lead in Iran’s activities in
the Persian Gulf.
Source uskowioniran.blogspot.com
56
4.2.5 Amphibious warfare For hovercraft see separate section
Hengam class Landing Ship, Tank
Vessels:
Hengam 51
Larak 52
Lavan 53
Tonb 54
Specifications
D: 2540 Tons full load
S: 14.5 Knots
Dim: 92.96x14.94x3, Tank Deck: 39.6x8.8
Range: 4000nm @ 12 knots
ARMAMENT: 4 2x ZU-23 AA Guns, 1 122mm BM-
21 MRL, 2x M2 .50 cal HMGs. 2x Mk5
Countermeasure Launchers.
Aircraft: Pad for 1 Sea King.
Radar: Decca 1229 I Band Surface search radar.
EW: SSR 1520 IFF.
Crew: 80 + capacity for 227 troops or 5-9 tanks or
Radar: MR-102 POT DRUM Surface/air search, MR-123 BASS TILT FCR
EW: Kikhrom HIGH POLE-B IFF, SQUARE HEAD IFF, Kolanka HOOD WINK Optical FC director.
Crew: 30
Soviet export patrol boat, quite good vessels but not widely exported. Its fate is unknown but perhaps knowledge gained
from its design has been incorporated in to newer Iranian ships.
Osa II class Guided Missile Patrol Boat This common class of PTG carries four SS-N-2 STYX missiles. Woefully outdated they have not been seen and are not
listed in current documents.
Alligator class Landing Ship Tank
This capable class of Russian LST can be used for both amphibious assaults and laying mines. In 2010 the IRGCN used this
ship as a target during war games in the Strait of Hormuz. The ship was struck with several rockets from IRGCN small
craft and towed back to port.
66
4.6.10 Naval aviation
P-3F Orion Number in Service: 2
The Orion is a highly successful derivative of the Lockheed Electra airliner, operated by a large number of countries
around the world. Its primary mission is Maritime Patrol and Anti-Submarine Warfare. To that end they are equipped
with a large surface search radar in the noise of the aircraft, internal and external sonobuoy dispensers, a Magnetic
Anomaly detector (MAD) on the “stinger” in the tail end of the aircraft, a search light and ESM pod can be equipped on
the inner wing pylons. They are also equipped with a sniffer to detect diesel exhaust from snorkeling submarines.
The ASW weapons capabilities on their aircraft are extensive there are 10 weapon pylons on the wings (possably on just
one aircraft) and 8 in the bomb bay. The pylons and carry bombs, mines, rockets, and missiles such as the Maverick. The
bomb bay generally carries ASW torpedoes or depth bombs, GP bombs or mines can also be carried.
These are the most capable aircraft in the Iranian Navy, they have an impressive range and endurance (up to 14 hours).
However their ASW capabilities are probably reduced due to lack of spare parts unless their systems have be replaced by
similar Russian systems. Also limiting their ASW potential is their radar, as built it was unable to detect a submarine's
periscope. Unclear is any modifications to that system.
C-130H Number in Service: 5
Notes: Patrol version of C-130 cargo plane. Used normally for SAR and basic patrol duties in addition to cargo role. Could
be used as a bomber or mine layer drooping ordnance via the cargo ramp.
DO-228 Number in Service: 2
Notes: This is a twin engine maritime patrol aircraft fitted with a surface search radar.
Fokker F-27 400M and 600M Friendship Number in service: 4 (2 each class)
Notes: Dutch cargo/passenger aircraft. Used by IRIN as logistics and patrol aircraft. Possibly fitted with search radar.
Painted in same blue camouflaged pattern as P-3F Orion.
Y-12 Number in Service: 7
Notes: Chinese twin engine transport aircraft also employed for Maritime Surveillance. Operated by IRGC.
Dassault Falcon 20 Number in Service: 1-2
Notes: This is a VIP transport aircraft.
Aero Commander 690
67 Number in Service: 4
Notes: This is a utility aircraft.
Shrike Commander 500S Number in Service: 4
Notes: This is a utility aircraft.
AB-205 Number in Service: 2
Notes: This is a utility helicopter. Possibility retired.
AB-206
Number in Service: <20
Notes: This is a utility helicopter, it can be armed with AS-11 ASMs and SSU-11 gun pods.
ASH-3D Sea King Number in Service: 9-15
This is the larger of the Iranian Navy's Shah
era ASW helicopters, they were
manufactured by Augusta with a license
from Sikorsky. It is too large for operation
off any combat ships currently in operation
by the Iranian Navy (Currently only the Mowj),
however several support vessels have sufficiently
large landing pads to operate them.
These are fitted with a SMA/APS surface search
radar in the underbelly fuselage, a Bendix AQS-13
dipping sonar, ASQ-81V MAD (Magnetic Anomaly
Detector), and Sonobuoys. Four torpedoes or
depth charges can be carried for ASW missions
while up to four Fajr-e-Darya missiles could be
fitted for ASuW missions. A SAR verson also is in
service and is equipped with a AN/APN-195 radar
in the nose.
Mi-171Sh
This is a Russian built utility helicopter and
gunship. The Iranians have fitted some to
fire C-801K anti-ship missiles.
Sea King deploying marines. Source via Uskowi on iran blog
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At least one test launch has been publicized, but operational status unclear. The Noor missile fitted to the Mi-17 is a
modification of the ground launched version normally fired from a box launcher. This means that the launch booster and
the pop-out folding fins are retained. An advantage of retaining the launch booster is slightly longer range and the ability
to fire the missile at very slow speed or hover, but the down side is a rather heavy missile that must exist the helicopter
very calmly to ensure that the fins don’t hit the fuselage or pylons when they pop-out split seconds after launch.
RH-53D Sea Dragon Number in Service: 7 with 3 no longer in service
These are massive helicopters capable of lifting
heavy payloads. Their combat capability is
limited to pintle mounted machine guns. These
aircraft are intended to operate in several
support roles including long range search and
rescue, insertion of SOF, heavy lift of gear (small
boats, SDVs, ground vehicles etc) and mine
sweeping. For mine sweeping a sled is moved
into position by a surface ship and then hooked
up to the RH-53D. There are three types of sleds
for the RH-53D, the Mk 104, 105 and 106. The
104 generates noise similar to a surface ship to
sweep acoustic mines, the 105 generates a magnetic field to sweep magnetic mines, the 106 combines both systems by
clipping the 104 on the tail of the 105. A large 'V' shaped cutter can also be towed to cut a mine's mooring cable so it will
float to the surface where it can be spotted and disposed of.
An AQS-12 towed sonar maybe fitted to aid in the detection of mines, With the use of that system marker buoys can be
laid to indicate the location of mines for disposal by EOD teams. It can be assumed that mines could also be laid by these
aircraft.
A lack of spare parts grounded these aircraft for a long time after the Revolution. These aircraft are critical to the Iranian
navy but are generally overlooked by observers, these are the only mine countermeasures platforms currently in
operation by the Iranian Navy. Elimination of these aircraft could theoretically remove the Iranian Navy from a war
scenario in which mines are used against it.
Additionally there are several operational problems with these aircraft in their MCM role. The 'V' shaped cutter is only
usable at under 12 knots while the sleds are only usable at over 20 knots meaning that basic contact mines cannot be
swept at the same time as the more sophisticated acoustic and magnetic mines. Also their endurance on station is only
around 2 hours. Another factor to consider is that US built mines maybe configured to ignore the acoustic and magnetic
“signatures” of the Mk 104 to 106 countermeasure system since its operation is well understood by US forces.
The sorry state of mine countermeasures in Iran is strangely mirrored by the US Navy which relies on its allies for MCM
assets and stations only two MCM vessels in the Gulf while it has decommissioned an entire class of them years before
Sea Dragon. Source ISNA
69 the end of their expected operational lives. Apparently mine sweeping is just not “sexy” to the Naval Brass no matter
what country you're in.
AB-212 and Shaviz-275
Number in Service: 6-10
A decedent of the versatile Huey built with two engines by Agusta. These
are small and simple aircraft that are being built in Iran as the Shaviz-275.
They have a crew of four, pilot, co pilot and two systems operators who
handle the radar and sonar systems. The aircraft features a
comprehensive avionics package including all weather flight controls
systems, automated navigation and hands-off autopilot capability.
Defensive countermeasures are also fitted. These aircraft are equipped
with a Ferranti SeaSpray Radar on top of the cockpit above the pilot.. A
winch on the left side is used for deploying the Bendix ASQ-18 dipping
sonar, a rescue basket for SAR or harness for personnel transfer are
alternative fits. A TG-2 Teseo datalink can be fitted for SSM targeting.
Armament can include two Mk44/46 or Moto Fides A-244 torpedoes for
ASW attacks or for surface attacks light anti ship missiles such as the Fajr-
e-Darya or AS-11/12 (stocks permitting)could be fitted.
This helicopter is capable of operating of any Iranian ship with a helicopter deck and appear to be the embarked
helicopter for the Mowj. Other missions observed for these aircraft include transport for up to 7 passengers, Medivac of
up to four litters and one medic, search and rescue and carrying of zodiac boats (presumably for special forces missions).
VRTREP could also be accomplished using the AB-212.
83 the Kaman missile boats. Currently the Sina missile boats, Mowj class corvette and one of the two Banyandor class
corvettes have been fitted with this weapon. This weapon is capable of engaging both air and surface targets and is
subtitle for shore bombardment. Targeting is accomplished via a fire control radar. Optionally, a optical director maybe
installed on the gun turret as is featured on the corvette Naghdi. This director may incorporate IR or LLTV systems for
night combat.
Type 69 Auto-Cannon Range: km/ 3.8nm
Rounds Ready per gun:
Total Rounds:
Rate of Fire: 1000 Round Per Minute
Weight of round: kg
Chinese copy of the Russian AK-230 twin 30mm cannon. The first CIWS put to sea (nearly a decade before the US
System) it’s less compact requiring spots for both the gun and the separate (but optional) radar and manual director. It is
not regarded as a CIWS by many observers and is less capable against missiles.
Fath 40mm AAA Range 4km against air targets (quoted as 12km)
ROF: 300 rds/min
Unveiled in 2009, the Fath is simply an upgraded Bofors L-70 40mm AAA as fitted to
Kaman class FACs. Several of the Kamans had previously been stripped of their Bofors
which were replaced by 20mm AAA or radars.
Although it is possible that it is being mass produced, it is more likely that the system
installed on the single Mowj class corvette is a refurbished one previously on a
Kaman.
Some commentators and press consider this a CIWS but it is rather a regular AAA
system with only modest capability against missiles.
GAM-BO1 20mm AAA Range: 1.5km against air targets
ROF: 900-1000 rds/min (cyclic). 200rds on mount
Carried by: Mowj class, Sina class, Alvand class
British crewed light AAA mount using Swiss Oerlikon 20mm
cannons. Widely used by Iranian Navy since 1990s.
Fath. Source ISNA
GAM-BO1 AAA seen ahead of bridge on Mowj class.
Source FARS
84
Zu-23 Rate of fire (Cyclic): 1,000 rds min (single barrel)
Practical: 200 rounds per minute per barrel
Effective range: 2-2.5 km (1.24-1.55 mi)
Effective altitude: 1,500-2,000 m (4,921-6,562 ft)
Russian origin 23mm light AAA employed in crewed form. Both
the usual twin mount (Zu-23-2) and Iranian single barrel mount
are employed. Only found on IRGCN craft, notably Thondar class
(twin mounts)and China Cat (single mounts).
Other shipboard weapons DShK 12.7mm MG. Widely employed, this can be used as light AAA or against surface targets. Equivalent to .50
Cal HMG in Western navies
BM-21 /HM-23 122mm MLRS. Employed for shore bombardment and as a direct-fire weapon against ships.
Carried by Hengam LST, China Cat FACs, and some patrol craft.
Oerlikon 35mm AAA twin mounts fitted to Alvand class corvettes
85
4.7 Facilities
Map of Navy bases:
Map of IRGCN bases. Lighter blue are less frequently employed.
86
Bandar-e Khomenei 30°25'41.42"N, 49° 4'50.18"E One of the major petrochemical shipping points in Iran, Bandar-e Shahpur, as it was known before the revolution does not appear to have a naval presence as some suggest, however due to its strategic value as a major transit point, it would be foolish to think there are not any military support staff, even if they're only a contingent of IRIN/IRGCN marines.
Bandar-e Mahshahr 30°29'43.62"N, 49°12'23.91"E Located in the delta formed by the Karun river south of Ahvaz next to Iraq, the port of Mahshahr in the 3rd naval district is a small affair, connected to the Persian Gulf by a series of small channels and waterways. This prevents the port from being home to any vessels larger than small patrol boats. This limits its operational capability, largely restricting it to serving as a home-base for interdiction and local patrol operations near the Iraqi border. Judging from the makeup of the craft stationed as well as the overall capabilities of the base, it appears to be primarily IRGCN It has a large number of small patrol and fast-attack craft including quite a few IPS-series boats armed with torpedoes and AshM's. There are also 30-40+ Boston-whaler type speedboats that operate in a varying state of readiness, some are located next to the water on ramps, while others are simply left out in empty lots more then a kilometer away from shore, in obviously non battle-ready conditions. A number of other larger, if obsolete patrol boats such as a Mk III patrol boat. Observable Assets – June 30 2009
3 IPS-16 Peykaap
5 Bavar
1 IPS-18 Tir
7 "battle-ready" (in-water or near-water) speedboats
30+ “non-battle-ready" speedboats (scattered across compound)
1 MK III patrol boat
2 unknown patrol boats (L. 13 m B: 3 m Weapons: mine, naval MLRS, 12.7 mm MG)
5/6 unidentified support/patrol boats (various)
Khorramshahr 30°26'2.71"N, 48°11'34.25"E Former headquarters of the the Imperial Iranian Navy, Khorramshahr is now home to extensive repair and
87
overhaul facilities in association with the Shahid Mousavi industries group whose products include barges, landing craft, and offshore platforms. The location is very near to Iraq and thus particularly vulnerable in wartime. No visible assets beyond a compound at: 30°24'11.55"N, 48°11'46.42"E
Khark Island 29°14'48.01"N, 50°19'48.88"E Home to one of Iran's most valuable petrochemical facilities, it comes as no surprise that it has a naval element protecting it. The harbors are located alongside the protected eastern shore of the island with three observable individual harbors, though the other harbors are likely capable of hosting ships as well, and due to its strategic position, the island as a whole is probably capable of hosting much larger ships then what is visible. Khark’s visible naval assets are composed of medium-large sized FAC's such as several unknown type's such as a Thondar look-alike, but with smaller rear-mounted missiles and a different bridge. There are also four more FAC or patrol boat of an unknown type in the same size range as “MIG-X-XXXX” type boats. In the same harbor, there are a number of high-quality speedboats. In this case, high-quality means anything besides the basic Boston-whaler type boats. There are also a number of other military installations on the island including a HAWK battery as well as several questionably-operable HQ-2 batteries. Observable Assets – March 4th 2004
4 Unknown patrol boats
20+ speedboats
1 Unknown FAC
Bandar-e Bushehr Main mooring 28°58'2.58"N, 50°51'50.74"E Naval academy 28°53'47.19"N, 50°51'3.96"E The IRIN and IRGCN naval facilities at the port of Bushehr is a major military and commercial port that houses several of Iran’s larger corvette-sized vessels as well as substantial storage, research facilities in addition to what is purportedly their largest repair and overhaul facilities. Formerly the headquarters of the 2nd naval district. Bushehr is the home base for the two Bayandor corvettes in service with the IRIN. The different between the two are that the IRIS 82 Naghdi has been refurbished with twin Noor AshM's and new guns, which give it a distinct appearance over the 81 Bayandor. Bushehr is also home to around 6-7 Kaman/Sina class missile boats, possibly including the P228 Gorz which is equipped with SM-1's instead of the usual AshM armament. There are also a number of speedboats and possibly semi-submersible craft's. Also operating from Bushehr are 2 RH-53D's and around 6 AB-212ASW. Observable Assets (port) – June 16th 2009