An Iranian warship identified as IRIS Dena was struck and sunk in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka’s Galle port, according to reports. The attack was carried out by a US submarine using a torpedo.
The vessel was said to have taken part in naval exercises in the Bay of Bengal near India between February 18 and 25, involving multiple countries and focusing on maritime security and joint drills. After the exercise, the ship was transiting past Sri Lanka into the Indian Ocean when it came under attack.
The incident occurred about 75 km from Galle while the ship was sailing in international waters. Officials said the torpedo hit caused the warship to explode and break into two before sinking.
Reports said around 180 crew members were on board at the time. Of them, 87 were reported dead and 61 missing, while Sri Lanka’s Navy and Air Force launched rescue operations after an emergency call, recovering 30 personnel.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly confirmed the action and released video footage showing the ship floating before a sudden explosion and sinking. He also claimed it was the first time since World War II that an enemy warship had been sunk by a torpedo.
