2 Decades of Development: IRGC’s US Carrier-Killer Missiles

Decades of Development Behind IRGC Anti-Carrier Missiles

Development of the anti-carrier missile system began more than two decades ago under the direction of the IRGC Aerospace Force, according to statements made by Shadiq Mahsuli during the Miz-e Ahzab program broadcast by Fars News Agency. Mahsuli noted that engineers reached critical testing milestones more than ten years ago. During those historical evaluations, the weapons systems demonstrated an operational success rate ranging between 80 and 90 percent in hitting maritime targets.

Over the intervening years, advancements in domestic science and technology allowed the IRGC to refine the guidance systems. Mahsuli emphasized that the current inventory delivers precision strikes against heavily defended naval platforms, marking a significant milestone in the military history of the Islamic Republic.

Clashing Accounts Over Regional Naval Engagements

According to statements published by the official news agency IRNA, the IRGC claimed its aerospace units successfully struck an American aircraft carrier and a destroyer with ballistic missiles after accusing the vessels of disrupting Iranian shipping and enforcing a maritime blockade. The IRGC asserted that both warships sustained damage and retreated from the combat zone, adding that US Central Command (CENTCOM) acknowledged the attack.

Conversely, CENTCOM provided a different assessment of the engagement. According to CENTCOM reports cited by Anadolu and Antara, Iranian forces launched ballistic missiles toward two US Navy warships conducting routine patrols in regional waters. The military command stated that both vessels successfully evaded the incoming ordnance, resulting in no American casualties. Following the exchange, US forces retaliated by striking three Iranian crude oil tankers.

Escalation in the Strait of Hormuz and Air Logistics Corridors

The maritime confrontations follow a series of tit-for-tat strikes across vital regional shipping lanes. One day prior to the reported missile strike on US warships, the IRGC Navy announced it had targeted three oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz alongside three other vessels affiliated with the United States. Iranian authorities framed those operations as direct retaliation for American attacks on Iranian oil tankers.

Military analysts tracking the conflict note that defense pressures have also expanded toward US aerial logistics paths in the region. The widening operational scope has prompted legislative discussions inside Iran, including parliamentary debates regarding proposed bills aimed at restricting commercial passage for US and Israeli vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Iran start developing anti-aircraft carrier missiles?

According to Jebhe Paydari Secretary-General Shadiq Mahsuli, the project started more than 20 years ago through the IRGC Aerospace Force, with testing milestones achieved over a decade ago.

What do US military officials say about the recent missile attacks?

According to CENTCOM, Iranian forces launched ballistic missiles at two patrolling US Navy warships, but both vessels successfully avoided the projectiles without sustaining hits or personnel injuries.

How has the ongoing conflict affected regional shipping?

The conflict has involved attacks on oil tankers and naval vessels by both sides, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, following the outbreak of hostilities in February.