Monitoring Desk
TEHRAN: The military of Iran tested new attack drones near the strategic Strait of Hormuz in the Gulf of Oman’s coastal area as part of its annual drill, state television reported.
Iran’s state television reported the Ababil-5 attack drone was used for the first time during war games and successfully hit the target with a bomb after traveling 250 miles (400 kilometers). Iran has tested several other military drones during the past decade.
The military drones have been a contentious point between the United States and Iran, which claim Iran is supplying Russia with drones that have been used in attacks in Ukraine.
Iran supplies Russia with drones
In November, Tehran acknowledged it had supplied Russia with military unmanned aircraft, adding that it came before Russia’s war in Ukraine. Iran maintained it is committed to stopping the Ukraine conflict.
Located near the Arabian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz is crucial to global energy supplies, with around a fifth of all oil traded at sea passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Airborne infantry and Commandos participated in the wargames, dubbed “Zolfaghar-1401,” along with fighter aircraft, helicopters, submarines, and military transport aircraft.
Iran’s military will fire missiles and air defense systems as well, and Iran regularly holds such drills to improve its defensive power and test weapons.
