Satellite imagery dated 8 January 2026 shows extensive naval movement at Iran’s main naval base in Bandar Abbas, with the majority of operational surface combatants departing the port over a short time window.
Observed movements
- Port status: Imagery indicates that most frigates and warships normally berthed at Bandar Abbas were absent as of the morning of 8 January.
- Flotilla deployments: Iran’s 103rd and 104th naval flotillas are confirmed to be underway toward South Africa for participation in the “Will for Peace 2026” naval exercises with Russia and China, scheduled for 10–16 January.
- Vessels remaining alongside:
- IRINS Zagros (signals intelligence ship), reported as non-operational
- IRINS Kurdestan (logistics / replenishment tanker)
- Outer harbour: The forward base ship IRINS Makran is observed holding position in the outer harbour rather than alongside the main pier.
Recent context
The large-scale departure follows the recent return to service of the frigate IRINS Sahand, which had previously capsized at Bandar Abbas during repair work and was subsequently salvaged and recommissioned.
The movements coincide with a period of heightened regional maritime security activity, including increased enforcement actions against sanctioned tanker traffic in the wider region and reported interdictions of illicit cargoes linked to Iranian supply routes.
Maritime significance
Bandar Abbas is Iran’s primary naval hub for the Strait of Hormuz. A near-empty pier configuration typically reflects planned deployments, exercises, or force dispersal, and has direct implications for:
- Regional maritime monitoring
- Strait of Hormuz security assessments
- Commercial shipping risk evaluation in adjacent waters
Bottom line:
A significant portion of Iran’s surface fleet is currently away from Bandar Abbas, driven by confirmed deployments and exercises, leaving limited naval presence alongside at the base.
The Deep Draft 
Leave a comment