“60 Drones, 27 Attack Boats, and Hidden Submarines: The 12 Minutes That Nearly Sank U.S. Warships in the Strait of Hormuz.lh

Helicopter support arrived at a critical moment. MH-60R Seahawks, previously orbiting at a safe distance, surged inward. Sonobuoys splashed into the water, triangulating submarine positions. Within moments, positive contact was confirmed.

An MK54 lightweight torpedo dropped from the first helicopter. Seconds later, a violent underwater explosion signaled the destruction of the first submarine. The second attempted to flee—its fatal mistake. Increased engine noise revealed its position. A second MK54 struck home.

Both submarines were eliminated within 90 seconds.

The final remaining Iranian torpedo, having lost lock, exhausted its fuel and sank harmlessly.

Twelve minutes after it began, the battle was over.