Iran Navy dispatches task groups to South Africa as it expands maritime presence: Cmdr.
Iran’s Navy commander praised the country’s “expanding maritime presence” beyond the region, announcing that the Navy’s 103rd and 104th task groups have set sail on overseas missions and are currently en route to South Africa.
Speaking at a gathering of clerics hosted by the Navy on Sunday, Rear Admiral Shahram Irani said the Islamic Republic is a leading contributor to maritime security in the region and beyond.
He emphasized that the deployments reflect the force’s growing reliance on domestic capabilities, trans-regional operational experience, and a sustained presence in open waters.
According to the commander, one of the fleets has been tasked with escorting commercial vessels, while Fleet 103 is also scheduled to take part in a joint naval exercise with BRICS countries.
He said the participation is in line with directives from Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and aims to strengthen defense and maritime diplomacy.
Irani further asserted that Iran’s position in the maritime domain has been firmly established, adding that the Navy has become “one of the influential players in maritime security in the region and beyond.”
He also criticized efforts by hostile media to portray Iran as isolated, saying such attempts have failed in the past and will fail in the future.
Elsewhere in his remarks, he noted that foreign military commanders acknowledge the role and influence of Iran’s leadership.
The commander explained that statements by Iran’s Leader are studied at senior military levels abroad, which he said shows the country’s impact on regional and global dynamics.
Highlighting the importance of conveying these assessments to military personnel—particularly younger forces in training centers—Irani said Iran’s current standing has compelled enemies to recognize its position despite ongoing propaganda campaigns.
He also praised recent naval achievements, including missions by the 86th Fleet and the Sahand destroyer, as the product of unity, faith, and adherence to the guidance of the Leader.
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