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Operation Praying Mantis: The One-Day Naval War with Iran
On April 18, 1988, the United States Navy engaged in a fierce one-day naval battle with Iran, known as Operation Praying Mantis. This conflict, which occurred during the Tanker War, a period of intense maritime warfare between Iran and Iraq, marked a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations.
The Tanker War
The Tanker War, which raged from 1984 to 1988, saw both Iran and Iraq target each other’s oil tankers in the Persian Gulf. This maritime conflict was a direct consequence of the Iran-Iraq War, which began in 1980. The Tanker War was marked by a series of attacks, including bombings, missile strikes, and mine warfare, with both sides employing a variety of tactics to disrupt each other’s shipping routes.
The Sinking of the USS Samuel B. Roberts
The events leading up to Operation Praying Mantis began on April 14, 1988, when the USS Samuel B. Roberts, a US Navy frigate, struck a mine in the Persian Gulf. The explosion caused significant damage to the ship, injuring several sailors. The US Navy attributed the mine attack to Iran, which denied any involvement.
The US Response
In response to the mining of the USS Samuel B. Roberts, the US Navy launched Operation Praying Mantis. The operation involved a massive deployment of naval forces, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, and cruisers, to the Persian Gulf. The primary objective of Operation Praying Mantis was to retaliate against Iran for the mine attack and deter any further aggression. The operation was also intended to protect US shipping interests in the region.
The Naval Engagements
On April 18, 1988, the US Navy launched a series of attacks against Iranian naval and oil platform installations. The most significant engagement involved the sinking of the Iranian frigate IRIS Sabalan, which was heavily damaged by missiles and gunfire from US Navy warships. In addition to the Sabalan, several Iranian oil platforms were also destroyed during the operation. The US Navy also claimed to have shot down two Iranian F-4 Phantom fighter jets and a number of Iranian speedboats.
Casualties and Aftermath
Operation Praying Mantis resulted in the deaths of 37 Iranian sailors and the capture of 16 Iranian sailors. The US Navy sustained no casualties during the battle. The operation marked a major turning point in the Tanker War, with Iran scaling back its attacks on shipping in the Persian Gulf. The conflict also heightened tensions between the US and Iran, which continue to this day.
Significance of Operation Praying Mantis
Operation Praying Mantis was a significant event in the history of the US Navy and the Iran-Iraq War. It demonstrated the US Navy’s commitment to protecting its interests in the Persian Gulf and its willingness to use force to deter aggression. The operation also highlighted the potential for escalation in the region and the dangers of maritime warfare. The events of Operation Praying Mantis continue to be studied by military historians and analysts, providing valuable insights into the complexities of naval warfare and the geopolitical dynamics of the Persian Gulf.
Conclusion
Operation Praying Mantis was a one-day naval battle that had a profound impact on the course of the Tanker War and the relationship between the US and Iran. The operation serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of the Persian Gulf and the importance of diplomacy and international cooperation in maintaining regional stability.