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Originally Posted by Skybird
Quote:
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Originally Posted by jimbuna
Nope I reckon Tomahawk strikes and repeated/precision air strikes (fed by satellite data, AWACS etc) to name just two, would put paid to any threat within striking distance of the Stratecically important Strait of Hormuz.
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[sarcasm on]
Ach...?
[sarcasm off]
Never heared that Tomahwks are used to explode drifting sea mines, or to take out undeteced targets like a three man missile crew, or an explosive-loaded speed-boat moving in in the dark.
Also, airborn and orbit-born detection has limits.
Jim, you see it too easy, and very much so. Mining a strait is simple. Getting it clear again or move through it - that is the tricky part. And never I have heared or read a serious military experts putting serious doubts on the Iranian's capability to close the straits, if they want. Ignroing the mines, the place is infested not only with Silkworms, but more modern chinese missiles as well. If you think you get a tanker (or a task force) through that needle's eye with the Iranians not wanting that, then you are dreaming. Even for a sub it probably would be a risky operation under wartime conditions, due to the shallow water. |
One step/point at a time if I may
Sea mines....they have to lay them first and even if they do, it shouldn't be too hard to clear a navigation channel.
Speed boats in the dark....infra red/night vision/radar/listening sensors. I should also imagine they won't be launching from nearby because of the 'eye in the sky' looking down on them....certainly able to give sufficient early warning of movement.
Iranian missiles...leave them to the airforce and the tomahawks. It might also mean Special Forces pay the odd visit.
Your right, airborne detection does have it's limits, but the allied capability is far in excess of what the Iranians can pit against it....and that is a 24/7 capability.
I should imagine most of the Iranian capability is already tagged should there ever be the need for a pre-emptive surgical strike at the first sign of them becoming a threat to the oil route.
I suppose the only way to see who is right here would be if the situation over there deteriorates to such a serious level.
One thing I am sure of....the US in particular and hopefully the west in general will never allow the Iranians, a country currently under so much suspicion of preparing for wrongdoing, to cut off the supply of oil.