Colombo, Sri Lanka – Tuesday — A United States submarine has sunk an Iranian frigate off the coast of Sri Lanka, marking the first time a U.S. submarine has destroyed a ship in combat since June 1945, according to regional officials and international media reports.
Sri Lankan authorities told the BBC that approximately 180 people were believed to be aboard the Iranian vessel, identified as the Iris Dena, at the time of the strike. As of Tuesday, 32 survivors had been rescued and 80 bodies recovered from surrounding waters. Search and recovery operations are ongoing.
U.S. defense officials have not yet publicly released detailed operational information regarding the strike. The incident significantly expands the geographic scope of the escalating U.S.–Israel–Iran conflict, pushing hostilities into the Indian Ocean.
Naval analysts say submarine warfare represents a major escalation, as undersea engagements are typically among the most strategic and sensitive forms of military action. The reported sinking could alter maritime security calculations across key shipping lanes near South Asia.
Sri Lanka has not indicated whether the engagement occurred within its territorial waters or international waters off its coast. Officials confirmed recovery efforts are being coordinated locally.
The strike adds to mounting regional tensions that have already disrupted global energy markets and commercial air traffic.
Further statements from the Pentagon and Iranian officials are expected as details continue to emerge.
