Iran plays naval cat-and-mouse game in the Gulf
Western military protection for its tankers is expanding, but unconventional tactics remain a threat
The arrival of a second British warship in the Gulf on 28 July means London has the resources to escort UK-flagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. But this support will be small comfort to tanker captains, or the industry that depends on them. State-of-the-art destroyer HMS Duncan and the already Gulf-based frigate HMS Montrose have the firepower, if backed by planes from the US 5th Fleet, to counter Iran's ageing collection of conventional bombers, frigates and submarines. But Iran has several unconventional means of causing havoc if it chooses. Limpet mines, placed by frogmen or delivered by fast boats, have already struck six tankers in the Gulf of Oman, triggering a blame-game abou
Also in this section
1 April 2025
There is method to the US president’s apparent madness, and those seeking to understand need look no further than their local bookshop
1 April 2025
Strong economic growth targets are encouraging for the country’s energy demand growth, even if meeting those goals might be a tall order
28 March 2025
The Central Asian country is positioning itself as a low-carbon leader, but antiquated infrastructure and a dependence on Russia are holding it back
28 March 2025
MCEDD 2025 took place in Madrid this week with record attendance and a wide-ranging programme, reflecting the deepwater sector’s renewed momentum, strategic focus and accelerating technological innovation.
