US Launches First-Ever Drone Boat Strike on Iranian Naval Base in Bandar Abbas

On July 12, 2026, US Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted a series of attacks on an Iranian naval maintenance facility in Bandar Abbas, Iran, using multiple one-way explosive unmanned surface vessels (USVs). This marked the first operational combat use of USVs by US forces. Three Corsair-class drone boats struck a submarine and ship maintenance site at the port, causing significant damage. Dramatic footage released by the US military showed the drone boats rapidly approaching and detonating at the target.

CENTCOM announced the start of a new wave of strikes against Iran aimed at degrading its ability to attack civilian and commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The US stated that the president authorized these attacks to hold Iranian forces accountable. In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have launched missile and drone strikes on the Prince Hassan Airbase in Jordan, igniting fuel tanks and ammunition depots. Iran further asserted that this was the first phase of their response, with a subsequent strike targeting the Sheikh Isa base in Bahrain.

These developments escalate tensions in the region, highlighting the use of novel drone boat technology in naval warfare and signaling a new phase of confrontation between the US and Iran. Further military and diplomatic responses are anticipated as both sides continue their exchanges.