Iranian Navy Ships Head for Atlantic Ocean

The Iranian Navy deployed two warships for their first-ever navy mission in the Atlantic Ocean, the Arab News reports.

The ships, Sabalan and Khark, carrying about 30 navy academy cadets, will undertake a three-month voyage across the Atlantic.

Kharg is a 207.8 meters long replenishment ship of the Iranian Navy, with a displacement of 25,000 tons, which is able to carry about 500 personnel on board.

Sabalan is a 95 meters long destroyer with an SHD3 helicopter on board. She has a displacement of 1,440 tons and 198 personnel aboard.

The Iranian Navy Chief Admiral Habibollah Sayyari said that the ships will secure shipping routes and hold training of new personnel.

Iran sent the ships to the Atlantic Ocean to demonstrate their ability to project power beyond the Middle East.

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Naval Today Staff, January 22, 2014; Image: Sri Lanka Navy