Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani says the force will take delivery of a number of new domestically designed and manufactured submarines in the near future.
Speaking at a press briefing in the capital Tehran on Saturday, Irani stated that his force has managed to thwart various threats and sanctions, and made tremendous strides towards the path of Iran's progress.
Iranian naval units are working diligently to maintain their presence in international waters. They have, therefore, devised plans to update and modernize their vessels, and beef up floating bases in the oceans to meet demands in all fields, he said.
Irani went on to say that the Iranian Navy is currently manufacturing several new submarines that will soon enter service.
He also hailed the missile power of the Iranian Navy, stating that the force is manufacturing a wide range of missiles and is in possession of weapons with a range of over 1,000 kilometers. “The Iranian Navy has also enhanced its electronic warfare capabilities.”
Irani highlighted that the Navy has started to build vessels heavier than the Mowj-class ones, saying two such military ships are being manufactured.
Iran’s Navy chief said his force plans to mark this year’s national Navy Day, which falls on 29 November annually, by holding a ceremony in which foreign delegates are set to attend.
The Navy also plans to stage an international maritime emergency response drill as well as a combined naval exercise by the end of the current Iranian calendar, which concludes on March 20, Irani said.
Additionally, plans have been formulated for joint patrols with naval units from neighboring countries, and the establishment of a number of oceanic hubs, he emphasized.
“We are currently exchanging cadets and professors with neighboring states, staging combined drills and holding bilateral meetings,” Irani asserted.
The Islamic Republic of Iran is playing an active role in today’s multipolar world order with the discourse of resistance and motto of peace and friendship, he stated, stressing, “The enemies must bear in mind that Iran will never be isolated.”
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.
The Iranian naval forces have also staged military drills with different countries, including Russia, China and Pakistan, over the past years to promote their combat readiness.
They have also been involved in joint efforts aimed at countering piracy and maritime terrorism, exchanging information in naval rescue and relief operations as well as sharing operational and tactical experience to enhance the security and stability of international maritime trade.