
AH-64 Apache helicopters from the United States Army and MH-60 Seahawk helicopters from the Navy were used to destroy six small Iranian boats that were threatening commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
The action took place amid a new escalation of tensions in the region, marked by Iranian attacks using cruise missiles, drones, and light boats against military and civilian targets. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), no American vessel was hit, and all threats were neutralized.
The offensive comes alongside the launch of operation “Project Freedom“, a United States initiative aimed at ensuring the security of maritime traffic through the strait, one of the world’s most strategic trade routes. The plan involves a broad military structure, including destroyers, aircraft carrier groups, combat aircraft, unmanned platforms, and around 15,000 military personnel, forming a kind of “defensive dome” to protect both American forces and merchant ships from different countries.
+ Vietnam develops new XTC-03 wheeled infantry carrier
According to Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM, Iranian forces, especially those linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, have intensified aggressive actions in recent hours, launching multiple attacks that were intercepted by American defenses. In addition, U.S. officials say they are already in contact with shipping companies to encourage the resumption of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, with early signs that the flow is beginning to recover despite the risks.
Experts point out that the use of armed helicopters against small boats is part of a strategy consolidated over decades by the United States to counter this type of threat, common in scenarios involving Iran. Even so, the environment remains highly volatile, with additional risks such as naval mines, anti-ship missiles, and drones. The increased American military presence and recent tough statements from political leaders indicate the possibility of new confrontations, while international concern grows over a potential expansion of the conflict in the region.
Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander, flew over regional waters in and near the Strait of Hormuz in an AH-64 Apache helicopter, May 3, on the eve of U.S. military support for Project Freedom. He interacted with U.S. Army Soldiers after visiting with Sailors and Marines on Saturday… pic.twitter.com/NEc9YCFBPB
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) May 4, 2026
U.S. Navy MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopters are supporting Project Freedom in and near the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier today, Sea Hawk and U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopters were used to eliminate Iranian small boats threatening commercial shipping. pic.twitter.com/pt9eTWkhxZ
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) May 4, 2026
Source: The Aviationist / The War Zone | Photo: X @CENTCOM | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
