TEHRAN – General Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Commander (IRGC) naval, declared that the United States “incapable” to challenge Iran’s maritime control, vowing to “decisive retaliation” for attacks on oil tankers or territory.
In an interview with Iranian national television broadcast on Sunday, Tangsiri noted that decades of US viewed Tehran as “bullying” by Tehran’s indomitable resistance, and that Iran is currently in unparalleled strategic control over key waterways in the Persian Gulf.
The interview comes from the deployment of additional warships into the region and renewing anti-Iranian rhetoric from US officials amid escalating the stance of US military stances in West Asia.
Referring to the US Navy aircraft carrier, he said, “Their airlines once overthrew the government. Today our ship ordered them out of our water.”
Tangsiri also highlighted Iran’s control over key infrastructures such as oil and gas platforms as both a strategic advantage and a foundation for a peaceful attitude to avoid the initiation of conflict at sea.
He further introduced the country’s defense capabilities by focusing on the strength of air defense and the quality of missile production.
“We have built a vessel that is better than a similar American model. We may announce it when the time comes,” declared Tangsiri.
Emphasizing the importance of military power to the dignity of the nation, he said, “If we want to protect our dignity today, we must have a strong army.”
He explained that for the IRGC Navy, robustness is not only a key to security, but also a source of national pride.
Tangsiri turned to technological advances and shining the spotlight on the Shahid Bagheri ship. This is a multipurpose naval base where missile launcher groups can be deployed arranged to carry a total of 14 missile units.
He also celebrated the groundbreaking achievement of launching Iran’s first drone carrier with a 180-meter runway.
Additionally, he said the IRGC Navy arsenal includes missiles with ranges of 2,000 km, drones and submarines, which can reach speeds of up to 110 knots.
Iran’s Navy Shield
Founded after the Islamic Revolution in 1979, the IRGC Navy is an Iranian Vanguard maritime unit and is entrusted with observing national sovereignty and revolutionary principles in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
It evolved from a militia to a formidable, asymmetrical warfare expert, employing flock tactics, advanced mining warfare and coastal defense strategies.
Equipped with a radar system that can detect targets up to 200 km away, a robust air defense network, and a fleet of fast-attack ships armed with anti-ship missiles and drones, the IRGC Navy controls maritime conflicts while deterring foreign invasions.
Famously for intercepting hostile warships near Iranian seas, it enforces maritime boundaries and asserts Tehran’s authority.
The military has carried out famous operations, seizing tankers involved in avoiding smuggling and sanctions, reflecting Iran’s commitment to combat maritime crime and protecting the safety of the region.
Recent upgrades, including advanced warships and high-speed fleets, coincides with Iran’s “appearance to the sea” doctrine, increasing its ability to secure important waterways like the Strait of Hormuz.
Through indigenous technological advances and unwavering resolve, the IRGC navy represents Iran’s strategic resilience and independence, countering external pressures while ensuring stability in one of the world’s most important maritime corridors.