The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy stated on 10/9 that the US recently deployed unmanned vessels to the Strait of Hormuz to avoid direct engagement. "We struck and destroyed a Saildrone vessel, hull number 5838, at the entrance to the strategic Strait of Hormuz," the force announced.
Tasnim news agency released video footage of the burning vessel on the same day, identifying it as an Explorer model manufactured by US company Saildrone. The craft is equipped with cameras, communication systems, and sensors for reconnaissance, surveillance, and maritime domain awareness (MDA) missions.
A supposedly US unmanned vessel burns in a video posted on 10/9. Video: Tasnim
The IRGC Navy emphasized its continued control and close monitoring of the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that "all hostile forces present in this shipping lane" would be targeted.
According to manufacturer specifications, the Explorer unmanned surface vessel (USV) is 7 m long, has a 5 m sail height, and an average speed of 2-6 km/h. Powered by solar and wind energy, the vessel boasts unlimited range and can operate continuously for over 12 months.
"No vessel in the world can collect high-quality, high-resolution scientific data above and below the sea surface for as long as the Explorer," Saildrone stated.
AFP news agency reported that the US previously used the Explorer to collect data and imagery in the Gulf region. Iranian media indicated that the burning vessel was deployed in the area of responsibility for the US Fifth Fleet and Task Force 59, a unit stationed in Bahrain tasked with developing unmanned aircraft and AI networks for the US Navy.
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An Explorer USV in the Gulf of Aqaba in 2022. Photo: US Navy
US Central Command (CENTCOM), responsible for US military operations in the Middle East, has not commented on the information.
On 8/9, the IRGC claimed to have seized a US Dive-LD unmanned underwater vehicle at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, adding that this was the result of a complex intelligence and operational mission. Released images showed the vehicle seized in relatively intact condition.
Colonel Tim Hawkins, a CENTCOM spokesperson, confirmed that "an unmanned underwater vehicle" operated by US forces experienced a malfunction while surveying regional waters to support operational activities.
He asserted that the underwater vehicle was "older equipment, did not collect sensitive data, and did not carry secret sonar and radar systems." However, the CENTCOM spokesperson did not confirm whether the malfunctioning underwater vehicle was the same one seized by Iran.
A Dive-LD unmanned underwater vehicle that Iran claimed to seize from the US on 8/9. Video: IRGC Navy
By Pham Giang (Source: Press TV, Tasnim, AFP)
