Iran wraps up Velayat 91 naval drills in southern waters

Iranian naval forces have wrapped up six-day naval drills in and around the country’s southern waters, stretching from the Strait of Hormuz to the north of the Indian Ocean.

The major maneuver, codenamed Velayat 91, was launched on Friday and wrapped up on Thursday.

On the fifth day of the maneuvers, the Iranian Navy successfully test-fired Qader (Capable) surface-to-sea and Nour (Light) surface-to-surface missiles.

On the fourth day of the major military exercises, Iranian marines successfully test-fired the latest version of the indigenous surface-to-air missile Ra’d (Thunder) and launched the indigenous short-range cruise missile Nasr (Victory).

Iranian defense units also fought back and countered an assault by trespassing mock enemy in Iran’s territorial waters.

Iran’s Navy held the maneuvers in order to display the country’s capabilities in defending its maritime borders.

“The objectives of the Velayat 91 drill are to display the Islamic Republic’s power in establishing security in seas and to convey the message of peace and friendship to regional countries,” Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari said.

Over the past few years, Iran has held several military drills to enhance the defense capabilities of its armed forces and to test modern military tactics and equipment.

The Islamic Republic has repeatedly assured other nations, especially its neighbors, that its military might poses no threat to other countries, stating that its defense doctrine is based on deterrence.