US Navy Patrol Aircraft Monitors Strait of Hormuz Amid Tensions

Feb 22, 2026

90 min

Feb 22, 2026 16:30

Iran-US tensions: Submarine hunter aircraft circles Strait of Hormuz

## US Surveillance in the Strait of Hormuz

A US Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft, known for its advanced surveillance capabilities, has been observed patrolling the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic waterway is crucial as it channels 20% of the world's seaborne oil. The aircraft, equipped to detect submarines, mines, and small boat swarms, was seen near Iran's Bandar Abbas port and Qeshm Island.

## Military Movements and Tensions

The presence of the Poseidon is part of what analysts describe as "controlled escalation" in the region. The aircraft took off from Sheikh Isa Air Base and was tracked by Flightradar24 as it conducted its mission. While some sources label these operations as routine, the context of heightened US-Iran tensions adds significance.

## Iran's Naval Capabilities

Iran is believed to have a fleet of up to 30 submarines, primarily for operations in shallow waters. The US surveillance aims to monitor these assets and any potential mining activities in the Gulf and Hormuz.

## US Military Strategy

The US has repositioned forces, including fighter jets and missile batteries, from Europe to the Middle East. This move is seen as a defensive measure amid ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran. The Pentagon emphasizes that these actions are meant to deter aggression rather than provoke it.

## Diplomatic Efforts

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope for a peaceful resolution with Iran, despite the challenges. The US aims to maintain transparency in the Strait of Hormuz to prevent it from being used as a leverage point by Iran.

## Recent Surveillance Activities

In addition to the Poseidon, a MQ-4C Triton drone has also conducted reconnaissance flights in the region. These operations are part of regular efforts to ensure situational awareness and monitor maritime activities around Iran's southeastern coast and the Gulf of Oman.

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