The U.S. military has disabled an oil tanker and deployed sea drones in strikes against Iran, marking significant escalations in the ongoing conflict. On Wednesday, U.S. forces disabled the Curacao-flagged M/T Belma, a 1,100-foot-long tanker, after it ignored warnings while heading toward Kharg Island. The vessel was struck by a Hellfire missile, rendering it inoperable. Separately, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the first combat use of unmanned surface vessels (USVs), or sea drones, in strikes on Iran's Bandar Abbas Naval Base on Sunday. The drones targeted a submarine and ship maintenance facility, which CENTCOM stated degraded Iran's ability to attack commercial shipping. Footage released by CENTCOM showed explosions near the piers, sending thick plumes of smoke into the air.
Sea Drones in Combat
The use of sea drones represents a new phase in modern warfare. These unmanned surface vessels can operate remotely or autonomously and are smaller than traditional naval vessels. They are typically used for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and mine countermeasures but are increasingly employed for strike operations. Analysts note that sea drones enhance naval efficiency by allowing crews to focus on broader missions while the drones contribute to a common operational picture.
Blockade and Tanker Disruption
The U.S. reinstated a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, targeting Iranian oil shipments. The M/T Belma was the first vessel disabled since the blockade's renewal. CENTCOM reported that two compliant ships were redirected within the first 24 hours. During the blockade's previous iteration, the U.S. military redirected over 140 compliant vessels, disabled nine, and allowed humanitarian aid to pass. The Pentagon estimated that the earlier blockade cost Iran around $4.8 billion in oil revenue.
Escalating Tensions
The U.S. has resumed strikes against Iran under President Trump's direction, targeting hundreds of sites along the Strait of Hormuz. Officials describe these actions as efforts to prevent Iran from attacking commercial ships. The strikes on Wednesday included two separate operations, highlighting the ongoing kinetic engagement in the region.