US military sent explosive drone boats into combat for the first time
Summary
The US military used explosive drone boats in combat for the first time, attacking an Iranian midget submarine and naval base on July 12. These unmanned boats, called Corsair drones, can operate by themselves and carry explosives to targets at sea.Key Facts
- The attack targeted an Iranian midget submarine and a ship maintenance facility at Bandar Abbas Naval Base.
- The drones were autonomous surface vessels developed by Saronic Technologies in Austin, Texas.
- Each drone boat is about 24 feet long and can carry up to 1,000 pounds for over 1,000 nautical miles at speeds over 34 knots.
- The drones can navigate, patrol, and manage power without direct human control.
- This was the first time US forces used drone boats in combat operations, according to US Central Command.
- Earlier, the US used a similar drone boat to rescue two helicopter pilots off Oman in June 2026.
- Explosive drone boats have been used by other groups like Iran-backed Houthis since 2017 and Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022.
- Ukraine’s drone boats have helped limit Russia’s naval operations in the Black Sea through attacks on warships and support vessels.
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