US Launches Mine Clearance Operation in Strait of Hormuz
The United States has launched an operation to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies.
According to available information, the operation will rely on advanced technologies including drones, underwater robots and helicopters to reduce risks to crews. Despite these capabilities, experts warn that mine clearance remains a complex and time-consuming process.
Iran is believed to have deployed around a dozen mines of various types in the area, although their exact locations remain unclear. The risk of further deployments also persists.
The US Navy is using a combination of sensors, sonar systems and remotely operated devices to detect and neutralise the mines.
The operation could take several weeks and carries security risks, including the potential for Iranian attacks.
The long-term objective is to develop a fully automated mine clearance system, although this has yet to be achieved.