Tehran, Iran – The Iranian naval command announced the launch of joint military exercises with the Russian naval forces in the Sea of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean, in a move that reflects the strengthening of the military alliance between Moscow and Tehran amid unprecedented mobilization in the region.
Details of the maneuvers and their timing
Iranian Navy Commander Hassan Maghsoudlou stated that the joint exercise will officially begin on Thursday, February 20, and aims to enhance combat coordination and maritime security. This move comes just days after intensive drills conducted by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Hormuz: A critical juncture coinciding with the American mobilization
These exercises coincide with a large-scale US military buildup in the region, with Washington deploying an additional aircraft carrier to bolster its military presence.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) currently has the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying strike group stationed in the area of operations south of the Strait of Hormuz, after its redeployment from East Asia.
Reports from US officials suggest that Washington is prepared to launch a “protracted military campaign” should the ongoing diplomatic negotiations between Iran and the United States reach an impasse.
