Iran’s Submarine Fleet

Iran’s submarine fleet currently consists of three KILO Class diesel submarines purchased from Russia; the third just delivered in 1995. The Iranians have been operating their KILO submarines fairly frequently and have gained minimal proficiency in anti-surface warfare.

For weapons, Iran has acquired wake-homing antiship torpedoes as well as wire-guided acoustic homing torpedoes; providing a capability to interdict merchant traffic in the Persian Gulf. Increasing submarine force capabilities support Iran’s proclaimed goal to control the Strait of Hormuz, which it plans to be able to accomplish through the combination of submarines, mines, and coastal missile batteries.

North Korea’s Submarine Fleet

With 22 obsolescent ROMEO and 4 even older WHISKEY diesel attack submarines, as well as 9 new SANG-O coastal submarines and 48 YUGO midget submarines, North Korea has the world’s fourth largest submarine force and the world’s largest midget submarine fleet.

However, despite its numbers and some 30 years of operational experience, the North Korean submarine force is only modestly proficient in basic operations in its own coastal waters. Wartime missions for the submarine force could support a ground offensive and defensive mining, reinforcement interdiction, and coastal defense.