In response to the evolving threat posed by one-way attack drones used by Iran and its proxies in the Middle East, the US Navy is making adjustments to ensure the safety of its warships and personnel in the region. These deadly unmanned systems, including the notorious Shahed-136, have been increasingly employed by Iran-backed actors to target both commercial ships and US forces.

Instances of drone attacks have been reported in various locations throughout the Middle East, with Houthi rebels in Yemen launching these drones at oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, and militias in Iraq and Syria targeting US forces stationed in those countries. US warships, including carrier strike groups, have regularly intercepted and shot down these one-way attack drones, showcasing their ability to defend against the threat at present.

Naval warfare experts have highlighted that well-armed US warships equipped with advanced radars, close-in weapons systems, and surface-to-air missiles have the capabilities to effectively counter these drones before they can pose a significant risk. The Phalanx close-in weapon system, which fires 20mm rounds, has proven successful in defeating such drones. In addition, SM-2 missiles and gunfire from aircraft or attack helicopters can be utilized for longer range engagements.

While individual drones may not pose a major threat on their own, concerns arise when these one-way attack drones are used in a coordinated salvo, potentially overwhelming a target's defenses. The Russian military has attempted such tactics with the Shahed-136 in Ukraine, though not all drones have reached their intended targets due to effective air-defense systems.

Experts emphasize that the US Navy is proficient in air defense capabilities, minimizing the risk posed by these drones. However, the presence of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower carrier strike group in the Persian Gulf has heightened concerns, as it exposes the warships to a variety of offensive capabilities possessed by Iran. Nevertheless, this deployment serves as a clear message from the US military that it is committed to protecting commercial ships in the region.

Farzin Nadimi, a senior fellow at The Washington Institute for Near East Policy, asserts that any attack against the Eisenhower carrier strike group would be considered a declaration of war, creating a deterrent against Iranian aggression. However, the threat should not be ignored, and constant monitoring of Iran's activities is essential.

For now, Iran and its proxies primarily target commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf and off the coast of Yemen. The US defense officials state that they are "well-postured" to safeguard their assets in the region, adjusting their posture as the threat evolves. As warfare continues to change, the US Navy remains committed to keeping its forces protected and adapting to new challenges in the dynamic environment of Middle Eastern waters.