U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet moves to heightened alert due to IRGC ship with ballistic missiles

The U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet, whose area of responsibility includes the western Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf, has been placed on heightened combat alert due to an Iranian warship. The "Shahid Mahdavi" floating base of the IRGC Navy, carrying long-range cruise and ballistic missiles, crossed the equator in the Indian Ocean for the first time in a long time.

The "Shahid Mahdavi" crossed the zero parallel and headed into the southern hemisphere. Prior to this, the ship was performing combat missions in the waters of the Gulf of Aden.

With this long voyage, we are expanding our range of influence and naval power. We are capable of reaching any point in the world's oceans.

Hossein Salami, Commander of the IRGC

U.S. Navy intelligence has been tasked with tracking the movements of the "Shahid Mahdavi." Several ships of the U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet are ready to deter the Iranian vessel in the Indian Ocean. American military leaders expect that the IRGC Navy ship may strike vessels carrying cargo for Israel.

What is known about the "Shahid Mahdavi" ship

The ship joined the Iranian fleet in the spring of 2023. Its length is 240 m, width is 27 m. The "Shahid Mahdavi" is equipped with a phased array radar, new generation communication systems, and electronic warfare equipment.

Helicopters, drones, and boats can be accommodated on its deck. In February 2024, the ship participated in exercises during which it practiced launching two ballistic missiles.

Cooperation between Russia and Iran in building a fleet

The "Shahid Mahdavi" is a Sarvin container ship rebuilt as a floating base. Its weight is 14 thousand tons, and its carrying capacity is 41 thousand tons. In May 2023, Russia and Iran signed an agreement to build 20 civilian vessels for traffic along the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). The countries are also developing military and military-technical cooperation.