Following the near-total destruction of Iran's conventional naval fleet by U.S.and Israeli strikes, Tehran has adopted an asymmetrical maritime strategy focused on small, fast-attack vessels known as the 'mosquito fleet.

' Operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), these vessels are equipped with missiles, machine guns, and drones, and are designed to swarm and disrupt commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Analysts note that Iran’s advantage lies in the sheer number of boats—over a thousand—and their integration with drones, mines, and hidden coastal infrastructure, which collectively create a persistent threat that is difficult to neutralize.

This strategy prioritizes disruption and attrition rather than seeking decisive naval battles, allowing Iran to exert coercive leverage without escalating into full-scale war.Recent incidents, including the seizure of container ships, demonstrate the fleet’s effectiveness.

Experts emphasize that eliminating these small boats would require a sustained campaign, likely involving ground operations to access the tunnels where the vessels are stored.

By leveraging geography, technological integration, and guerrilla tactics, Iran maintains a capable naval presence despite the destruction of its traditional fleet, posing ongoing strategic and economic challenges for global shipping.