Two light submarines built in Iran have joined national navy, reports governmental news agency IRNA .
This step is considered a part of Iran’s efforts to modernize its defense capability as a result of deterioration in relations with the West over Iranian nuclear program. Tehran threatens to block the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic oil traffic route.
Iranian Navy Commander ADM Habibollah Sayari said Ghadir -class submarines were meeting demands of the national navy, reports The Wall Street Journal .
According to the journal, Iranian authorities declared in Nov 2011 that three Ghadir -class subs were commissioned into Iranian navy.
It is believed that Iran operates 12 submarines including three Russian-made ones, although exact number is not disclosed.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , February 13, 2012; Image: 7rangers