The United States military has targeted an Iranian drone carrier, which is now reported to be on fire, according to Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command overseeing operations in the Middle East. The strike occurred amid heightened tensions and ongoing military engagements in the region.
Adm. Cooper described the vessel as comparable in size to a World War II aircraft carrier and capable of launching various uncrewed systems, including attack and reconnaissance drones. The exact location of the strike and the type of munitions used have not been disclosed.
The Iranian navy operates multiple vessels equipped to serve as launch platforms for drones, including converted tankers and the purpose-built drone carrier IRIS Shahid Bagheri. This particular vessel was previously a container ship before being modified and commissioned last year. Notably, it features a ski jump-style ramp similar to noted Soviet, Russian, and Chinese carriers, designed to facilitate drone launches.
Since the initiation of Operation Epic Fury last weekend, US forces have reportedly sunk more than 30 Iranian vessels. The operation aims to target Iran’s naval capabilities, consistent with priorities stated by US officials.
In addition to the strike on the drone carrier, Cooper provided updates on recent US air operations targeting Iranian military infrastructure. Within the prior 72 hours, US bombers have attacked nearly 200 targets deep within Iran, including sites near Tehran. Air Force B-2 Spirit bombers recently dropped numerous 2,000-pound penetrative bombs on underground ballistic missile launchers.
Furthermore, the rate of Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks beyond its borders has decreased significantly, with ballistic missile launches down by 90% and drone strikes down by 83%. Cooper attributed this decline to effective US countermeasures and noted that reduced attacks relieve pressure on air defense systems and interceptor missile supplies.
US forces have also struck facilities comparable to US Space Command within Iran, aiming to diminish the country’s capacity to pose threats to American interests. These developments occur within the broader context of escalating military confrontations and ongoing strategic operations in the region.
Details about future operations and the status of the affected Iranian vessel remain limited as assessments continue.
