Iran's Hornet Nest At Bandar Abaas

Bavar-2 amphibian seaplane employs the 'Wing in Ground Effect' (WIG) principle to fly low above sea level. In fact, Bavar-2 traces back to the Russian Eska-1 an early WIG planes designed in the 1970s. It is equipped with maritime surveillance equipment, and communications for recce and target acquisition over the sea. The new plane is operated by the Iranian revolutionary Guards naval units. Photo: Fars news agency, by Vahid reza Alaei.

Iran is preparing a massive force of small but highly capable combat elements capable of disrupting oil transportation through the Persian Gulf and the Straight of Hurmoz choke point. The Iranians have developed unique operational concepts employing coordinated swarm attacks that could effectively defeat large, well protected surface combatants such as those operated by the allied naval forces present at the Gulf. Many of these Swarm elements are currently stationed at the naval base at Bandar Abbas, acting as the Swarm’s ‘Hornets Nest’ at the southern end of the Hurmoz Straits in the Persian Gulf. In recent, highly publicized naval exercises held by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’, swarm attacks were demonstrated by engaging targets from extended range by anti-ship missiles, while smaller fast boats were closing in at high speed, firing rockets and Rocket propelled Grenades (RPG) from very short range.