Kharg- Iran’s largest warship

Largest warship of Iranian navy caught fire and sank in the Gulf of Oman, circumstances are still unclear. Kharg used to resupply other shops in fleet and conduct training exercises. It sank near Iranian port of Jask.

IRIS Kharg

Kharg, named after Island Kharg, was a modified Ol-class fleet replenishment oiler of Islamic Republic of Iran Navy. It was built by Swan Hunter in United Kingdom, which was officially launched in 1977. It was largest naval vessel of Iran on the basis of tonnage.

Ol-class Tankers

They were Royal Fleet Auxiliary “fast fleet tankers” which provides fuel, food, fresh water and other supplies to Royal Navy vessels across the world.

Replenishment oiler or replenishment tanker

Naval auxiliary ship with fuel tanks and dry cargo holds, used to supply fuel as well as dry stores during underway replenishment at sea. However, such ships are slower and carry fewer dry stores than modern fast combat support ships by USA.

Kharg or Khark Island

Kharg is a continental island, located in Persian Gulf and is about 25 km off the coast of Iran. It belongs to Iran while administered by adjacent coastal Bushehr Province. Island provides a sea port for export of oil and extends territorial sea claims of Iran into Persian Gulf oil fields.

Month: Current Affairs - June, 2021