In April 1988, the U.S. launched Operation Praying Mantis, a one-day war against Iran. It was retaliation for the U.S. frigate Samuel B. Roberts striking an Iranian mine in international waters. Although the Roberts’ keel was broken, thanks to the crew’s effort, the ship did not sink.
Ronald Reagan ordered the April 18, 1988 response. By the end of the day, Iran had lost five ships. A frigate was sunk, and a gunboat and 3 speedboats were sent to the bottom of the sea. One other Iranian frigate was heavily damaged and crippled, and two oil platforms were destroyed. An operation to send SEALs to capture the platforms was called off because the platforms were destroyed. It was the largest naval engagement for the U.S. Navy since World War II.
Iran’s navy does not have a very good track record. The Islamic Republic makes a lot of noise about its abilities, but in the end, it has…
