Submarine attack sinks Iranian ship near Sri Lanka; 32 injured

IRIS Dena (hull number 75) is an Iranian-built Moudge-class guided-missile frigate of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy, constructed at shipyards in Bandar Abbas and commissioned into service in 2021.

In a dramatic development off the coast of Galle, Sri Lanka, a submarine attack on the Iranian warship IRIS Dena left at least 101 people missing and 78 injured, Reuters reported, citing sources in the Sri Lankan navy and defence ministry.

However, Sri Lanka’s navy later revised those figures, saying the earlier numbers were incorrect. A Navy spokesperson clarified that 32 injured personnel were rescued and are currently receiving treatment in hospital. A search and rescue operation remains underway.

A search and rescue operation is still underway.

According to Al Jazeera, quoting Sri Lanka's foreign minister, around 30 sailors have been rescued from the frigate, which sank just outside Sri Lanka's territorial waters. One sailor is in critical condition following rescue, while a total of 32 survivors have been admitted to Karapitiya Hospital in Galle.

The vessel was en route back from the International Fleet Review (MILAN 2026) naval exercise in India.

Sri Lanka's navy and air force confirmed they have deployed ships and aircraft to assist with the ongoing rescue operation. Officials said they are not releasing footage of the vessel's rescue, as the operation involved the military of another state.

The IRIS Dena (hull number 75) is a Moudge-class guided-missile frigate of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy, built domestically at Bandar Abbas and commissioned into service in 2021.

Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed that rescue efforts continue for the approximately 180 sailors who were aboard the ship.

Prior to the February 28 events, Iran's navy was seen as one of the stronger naval forces globally and is actively enhancing its capabilities by adding advanced submarines and warships. These assets are strategically deployed to key locations, bolstering Iran's influence in the Gulf and the Indian Ocean.

The Islamic Republic of Iran Navy (IRIN) is the official branch responsible for managing the country's conventional naval fleet, which includes submarines and larger surface vessels. The navy has more than 18,500 personnel and operates over 100 ships and submarines.

Iranian naval operations cover both the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea, focusing on safeguarding territorial waters, securing critical maritime trade routes, and deterring any threats to the nation's sovereignty.

According to the Global Firepower 2024 report, Iran's navy ranks 37th out of 145 naval forces worldwide. While not among the top-tier global powers, this ranking highlights the steady growth of Iran's naval strength despite international sanctions and technological limitations.

The US has claimed that it has destroyed 11 of Iranian Naval assets in the war so far.