Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 27
By Khalid Kazimov - Trend:
A US warship had to leave the secured area, where Iran was conducting its naval military drills, after receiving a warning from the Islamic Republic's naval units.
Iranian army's naval forces conducted a "massive" drill, dubbed "Velayat 94", near the strategic Strait of Hormuz Jan. 27, Fars News agency reported.
Iranian navy has deployed its marines, various missiles and torpedoes in the drills area.
Iran's Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari said earlier that the drills will encompass the Strait of Hormuz and the northern part of the Indian Ocean.
In recent years, Iran's navy has been increasing its presence in international waters to protect maritime routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers.
In line with international efforts to combat piracy, the Iranian navy has also been conducting anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden since November 2008 to safeguard the vessels involved in maritime trade, especially the ships and oil tankers owned or leased by Iran.