Iran deploys explosive ‘suicide skiffs’ disguised as fishing boats in Strait of Hormuz

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 3 min read 100% complete by Emma BusseyMarch 13, 2026 at 08:53 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Iran is deploying explosive-laden drone boats, disguised as fishing vessels, in the Strait of Hormuz, signaling a new phase of maritime warfare. This follows recent attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, including a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker struck on March 1. A defense expert warns these "suicide skiffs" pose a growing asymmetric threat in the critical shipping lane. The boats are believed to be remotely controlled or pre-programmed for autonomous swarming attacks. The US Navy is considering escorting ships through the Strait, potentially with an international coalition, in response to the increased threat and the deployment of mines by Iran.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Fox News Digital 35% Oman 40% Reuters 40% U.S. Navy 50% Draganfly 50% Gulf 60% United States ×260% Operation Epic Fury 65% Cameron Chell ×570% United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) ×275% Iran ×590% Strait of Hormuz ×495%

Keywords

strait of hormuz 100% explosive drone boats 90% iran 80% maritime warfare 80% unmanned surface vehicle 70% suicide skiffs 60% asymmetric threat 60% oil tankers 60% shipping lanes 50% u.s. navy 40%