Iran using subs in plan to block Straits of Hormuz

WASHINGTON [MENL] -- Iran has deployed its new Russian-supplied submarines as part of a plan to block the Straits of Hormuz in times of crisis, a U.S. intelligence chief says.

Rear Admiral L.E. Jacoby, director of U.S. Naval Intelligence, said Iran plans to use the Kilo-class submarines to lay mines and fire advanced torpedoes on ships that would attempt to enter or leave the southern Gulf. The United States has pledged to keep the Gulf open to Western shipping.

"Iran, making maximum use of the advantages afforded by geography, has developed a sophisticated, layered defense plan for the southern Gulf and Straits of Hormuz designed to deny access to this critical area in time of crisis," Jacoby told the Senate Armed Services Sea Power subcommittee on Tuesday.

Jacboy said the submarines have been integrated into what he termed a "layered defense which includes mine fields, anti-ship cruise missiles and swarming small craft."

A year ago, Iran, in its last major exercise, operated its entire Kilo submarine fleet. Jacoby said the exercise demonstrated that Teheran had overcome problems with the battery units of the submarines.

Jacoby said Iran and other countries now have access to advanced technology through Russia. The result, he said is that the United States will have to face enemies with sophisticated submarine fleets.

"Most Russian technologies are available," he said. "In fact, they're actively seeking to sell. And all you have to do is go to an international arms or trade fair and you will find virtually anything that's available in Russia for sale. The same extends to other advanced nations who are working research and development in these areas that I laid out for you."

Jacoby said North Korea has also stressed the construction of submarines, despite its economic woes. One result is the development of the SANGO SSC, which can be used for either mining or anti-surface warfare.