Ayatollah Khamenei recently ramped up threats, suggesting that U.S. warships could be sent to the ocean floor. He remarked on February 17, “I always say the Americans sent warships to Iran. Of course, warships are dangerous military equipment. But even more dangerous than the warships are the weapons that send them to the bottom of the ocean.” This signals a notable increase in tension.
Admiral Brad Cooper, who leads U.S. Central Command, has the necessary forces to counter Iran and respond to attacks if needed. The reality is that Iran has taken American lives for years, and currently finds itself in a precarious position. The Iranian air defense systems suffered significant damage from previous operations, leaving its airspace vulnerable to advanced aircraft.
Given this backdrop, it appears likely that Iran will attempt to target U.S. ships and bases.
Here are four tactics from the Ayatollah’s playbook and potential U.S. responses:
Military Preparedness
The U.S. military has warned that it will not tolerate any “dangerous” actions, particularly as live-fire training exercises in the Strait of Hormuz are set to take place.
Ballistic Missiles
In June 2025, Iran launched a series of ballistic missiles at the U.S. Air Force base in Al Udeid, Qatar. Fortunately, American forces intercepted these missiles, with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Cain noting it as “the largest single-handed Patriot engagement in U.S. military history.”
The U.S. Space Force remains on standby to detect Iranian missile launches, and they’re prepared for interceptions. An incident in 2024 found an Iranian missile hitting a U.S. Navy destroyer in the Mediterranean, but the missile defense systems successfully neutralized the threat.
Drones
Iran has produced a wide array of drones, but any engagement with U.S. military forces could be disastrous for them. Recently, a Marine pilot took down an Iranian Shahed drone that encroached near the USS Abraham Lincoln. The mission was executed seamlessly, showcasing the heightened capabilities of American forces.
If Iran were to send drones in waves against U.S. vessels, good intelligence and surveillance would be essential for effective defense. The USS Gerald R. Ford is equipped to conduct combat air patrols day and night against such unmanned threats.
Swarming Tactics
The Revolutionary Guards Navy frequently engages in harassment with small vessels, promoting exercises involving multiple boats. However, it’s unlikely that these small crafts could effectively swarm under the watchful eyes of U.S. ships and aircraft. An incident where Iranian boats attempted to intimidate a Swedish tanker ended with the USS McFall intervening successfully.
Cruise Missiles
Iran possesses various cruise missiles that follow unpredictable paths, complicating targeting efforts. Nevertheless, the U.S. Navy has conducted numerous drills to prepare for such threats. On January 30, 2024, an encounter with a Houthi missile involved defensive measures that proved effective.
While the U.S. military appears to have the upper hand against Iran’s arsenal, it’s crucial to remember that this is a volatile situation. Constant vigilance is essential for the safety of personnel involved, be they at sea or in land bases. Protecting U.S. forces tops the priority list, and it’s clear why officials are eager to reduce Iran’s missile capabilities—diplomatic efforts may falter, necessitating decisive action.
