On February 28, 2026, a joint military campaign named Operation Epic Fury was initiated by the United States and Israel against Iran. The response from Iran led to escalating hostilities across the Middle East, affecting military and economic activities around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. With its geography, Iran is bordered by the Persian Gulf to the south and the Caspian Sea to the north, positioning it advantageously for naval operations.
Iran’s naval capabilities are embodied in the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy (IRIN), which operates alongside the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). While the IRIN may not possess large fleets, it is not devoid of potent naval assets. Iran’s capabilities include over 100 vessels and around 18,500 personnel as estimated in 2025. Moreover, the IRGC operates approximately 45 smaller, asymmetric warfare vessels. In summary, Iran commands around 145 military combatants along with numerous minor craft, reflecting a strategic focus on quick, aggressive maritime operations, primarily utilizing fast-attack crafts designed to penetrate defenses of larger ships. Additionally, Iran maintains a limited number of diesel-powered submarines.
Overview of IRIN Vessels
The IRIN maintains a fleet that includes traditional warship designs along with a diverse array of vessels. It operates from several significant naval bases and ports in the region, holding the 35th position out of 145 global naval forces according to the Global Firepower report of 2026. Although lacking in aircraft carriers or similar large ships typical of blue-water navies, the IRIN possesses three modern destroyers able to conduct intelligence and missile operations.
In addition, the IRIN operates seven frigates, numerous amphibious assault ships, and a range of corvettes. The current fleet also includes around 25 submarines, 21 patrol boats, and one mine warfare vessel. Following a statement from U.S. President Donald Trump on March 1, 2026, it was reported that nine significant vessels of the IRIN were sunk in the conflict, although the exact types of these vessels were unspecified, leading to speculation they might have been frigates or destroyers.
While Iran lacks nuclear submarines, its existing fleet is equipped to pose threats in the regional waters. The Tariq-class submarines, provided by Russia, can launch cruise missiles, deploy mines, and engage enemy vessels. Other classes such as Fateh, Ghadir, and Nahang submarines enhance its operational versatility significantly. The exact number of operational vessels remains uncertain, but the IRIN maintains a formidable presence that reflects its strategic military posture.
IRGC Navy Vessels
The IRGC Navy distinguishes itself through a more asymmetric approach to naval warfare compared to its counterpart, the IRIN. Due to constraints in deploying large-scale vessels akin to those of Western navies, the IRGC has prioritized the development of fast-attack crafts. Reports from June 2025 indicate that their fleet comprises 10 Houdong missile boats, 25 Peykaap II missile boats, five C-14 boats, and ten MK13 boats.
Recent advancements showcase a new type of IRGC speedboat capable of reaching speeds of 126.6 mph and equipped to launch anti-ship missiles, posing a significant threat to modern allied naval forces in the area. The smaller and lighter designs of these crafts enhance their effectiveness in executing hit-and-run tactics. Additionally, sources from August 2024 suggested that over 2,600 missile and drone systems were acquired, although it remains unclear if any are allocated to the IRGC Navy specifically.
It is likely that the IRGC Navy engages in asymmetric warfare with various domestically produced drones, though many of its operations are cloaked in secrecy. The total number of speedboats operated by the IRGC could span hundreds or even thousands, as these small vessels are easily fortified and can be armed with diverse weaponry. In 2024, the IRGC Navy also expanded its fleet with two stealthy Shahid-Soleimani-class catamaran corvettes.
