Introduction
In August 2025, Iran launched its large-scale military exercise titled “Sustainable Power 1404” in the Gulf of Oman, a strategically significant region at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz. This drill, one of Iran’s most extensive in recent years, comes amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and concerns over maritime security. The exercises are aimed at showcasing Iran’s missile capabilities, advancing its defense readiness, and sending a strategic signal to both regional adversaries and global powers.
This article explores the details of the drills, the types of missile systems tested, the geopolitical implications, and the broader context of Iran’s defense strategy under the framework of its military roadmap leading to the year 1404 in the Iranian calendar (2025–26).
What Is “Sustainable Power 1404”?
“Sustainable Power 1404” is part of Iran’s long-term defense doctrine aligned with its Vision 1404 Plan, which outlines the country’s economic, technological, and military ambitions by the year 2025–26. Conducted by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the national armed forces, the drill emphasizes:
- Testing a wide range of ballistic and cruise missiles.
- Demonstrating drone warfare capabilities.
- Simulating naval combat operations in the Gulf of Oman.
- Practicing air defense maneuvers against hypothetical foreign attacks.
- Enhancing coordination between Iran’s land, sea, and air forces.
The exercises also underscore Iran’s determination to maintain “strategic deterrence” in one of the world’s most contested waterways.
Location Significance: Why the Gulf of Oman?
The Gulf of Oman is a vital link between the Arabian Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. By conducting drills in this area, Iran highlights several strategic objectives:
- Control of Maritime Routes – Reinforcing its influence over oil shipping lanes critical to global energy markets.
- Deterrence Messaging – Sending a clear warning to adversaries, particularly the U.S. Navy and Gulf allies, who regularly patrol the region.
- Projection of Military Reach – Demonstrating its ability to operate not just defensively but offensively in international waters.
Missile Systems and Technology Demonstrated
Iran used the “Sustainable Power 1404” exercise to showcase its latest generation of missile technologies, many of which are indigenous. These included:
- Short-Range Ballistic Missiles (SRBMs) with precision strike capabilities.
- Medium-Range Ballistic Missiles (MRBMs), capable of hitting targets up to 2,000 km away.
- Cruise Missiles launched from both land and naval platforms.
- Anti-Ship Missiles designed to target enemy warships and disrupt maritime operations.
- Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs) integrated with radar systems for air defense.
Iran also reportedly tested swarming drone tactics, where multiple unmanned aerial vehicles are deployed simultaneously to overwhelm enemy defenses.
Strategic Messaging to the World
The timing and scale of “Sustainable Power 1404” carry powerful geopolitical signals:
- To the United States – Iran is showcasing its deterrence capabilities at a time of continued tensions over sanctions, nuclear negotiations, and U.S. military presence in the Persian Gulf.
- To Israel – By displaying long-range missile technology, Iran is reiterating its ability to respond to any preemptive strikes or escalations.
- To Gulf Arab States – The exercises serve as a reminder of Iran’s military dominance in the region, particularly against Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
- To the Global Community – Iran seeks to position itself as a regional power that cannot be ignored in maritime security discussions.
Impact on Regional Stability
The drills have sparked mixed reactions across the Middle East:
- Concerns among Gulf States – Countries like the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia view Iran’s actions as escalatory, potentially destabilizing commercial shipping.
- Cautious Monitoring by the U.S. Navy – With several fleets stationed in the region, Washington is likely to respond with increased patrols and joint drills with allies.
- Heightened Tensions with Israel – The missile tests may intensify Israel’s security concerns and fuel further covert or diplomatic confrontations.
- Global Energy Market Anxiety – Since oil shipments pass through the Strait of Hormuz daily, any military escalation could disrupt global supply chains.
Domestic Perspective: Building National Confidence
For Iran, the drill is not only a show of strength abroad but also a symbol of national pride at home. By advancing missile and defense technologies despite sanctions and international isolation, Tehran aims to:
- Bolster domestic morale.
- Reinforce its image as a self-reliant military power.
- Rally public support behind the government’s strategic vision for 1404.
“Sustainable Power 1404” and Iran’s Long-Term Defense Doctrine
The Iranian military has been steadily investing in asymmetric warfare, which focuses on using unconventional strategies to counter technologically superior adversaries. These include:
- Missile proliferation over conventional air power.
- Extensive use of drones for intelligence and combat roles.
- Cyber warfare capabilities.
- Naval swarming tactics using fast attack boats.
The Vision 1404 Plan emphasizes maintaining Iran’s influence across West Asia, securing its borders, and ensuring it remains a key player in regional geopolitics.
International Reactions
United States
Washington has condemned the drills, calling them “provocative” and a threat to maritime security. However, the U.S. maintains that its naval forces are prepared to ensure the safety of shipping lanes.
European Union
The EU expressed concern that the drills could hinder ongoing diplomatic efforts to revive the Iran nuclear agreement.
Gulf States
Saudi Arabia and the UAE have called for international monitoring, fearing Iran’s growing influence in regional waters.
Russia and China
Both Moscow and Beijing, as strategic partners of Tehran, welcomed the drills, highlighting Iran’s right to self-defense.
Conclusion
Iran’s “Sustainable Power 1404” drills in the Gulf of Oman mark a significant step in the country’s long-term defense strategy and its pursuit of regional influence. By demonstrating advanced missile and drone capabilities, Tehran is sending a message of deterrence to global powers while reinforcing domestic confidence in its military progress.
While the exercise strengthens Iran’s strategic positioning, it also heightens tensions in an already volatile region. The drills underline the delicate balance between power projection and regional stability, a dynamic that will continue to shape Middle Eastern geopolitics in the years ahead.