US Deploys Drone Speedboats in Iran Operations

The United States has deployed uncrewed drone speedboats for maritime patrols as part of its military operations against Iran, the Pentagon confirmed this week, marking the first official acknowledgment of such vessels in an active conflict. The deployment occurred in the Middle East region, specifically supporting efforts in the Gulf amid escalating tensions following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes that began nearly a month ago.

The vessels, known as the Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft or GARC, were built by Maryland-based BlackSea and measure about five meters in length. They are designed for surveillance and can also function as kamikaze strike platforms loaded with explosives, though officials stated there has been no offensive use by U.S. forces. The boats operate under the U.S. 5th Fleet and are integrated into Operation Epic Fury, the Pentagon's campaign targeting Iranian assets.

In a statement responding to inquiries, Tim Hawkins, a Pentagon spokesperson for Central Command, highlighted the vessels' performance. "U.S. forces continue to employ unmanned systems in the Middle East region, including surface drone assets like the GARC," Hawkins said. "This platform, in...