UK Submarine Deployed in Arabian Sea Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

The deployment of the HMS Anson, a nuclear-powered Royal Navy submarine in the Arabian Sea, signals heightened military readiness against Iran. Equipped with advanced missile systems, the submarine's presence raises concerns about potential strikes if conflicts escalate. The UK has also permitted the US to utilize its bases for operations aimed at neutralizing missile threats in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials have warned against such actions, emphasizing the risks of further escalation. This situation is compounded by recent missile launches from Iran targeting a critical US-UK base, raising alarms about Iran's missile capabilities and regional security dynamics. The unfolding events highlight the delicate balance of power and the potential for increased military engagement in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 22, 2026, 13:30 IST

Deployment of HMS Anson

Moscow, Mar 22: A Royal Navy submarine powered by nuclear energy has been stationed in the Arabian Sea, reportedly equipped to launch cruise missile strikes against Iran, according to British media sources.

The submarine, known as HMS Anson, is armed with Tomahawk Block IV land-attack missiles and Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes, and is currently believed to be operating in the deeper regions of the northern Arabian Sea, as reported by the Daily Mail on Saturday.

This positioning indicates that British military forces are prepared to execute strikes on Iran should the situation escalate.

If the Prime Minister gives the green light, HMS Anson could be ordered to surface and launch four missiles, as per the report.

On Friday, the UK government consented to allow the United States to utilize British military bases for operations aimed at diminishing missile sites and capabilities that threaten vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, according to a statement from Downing Street.

The UK is collaborating with global partners to formulate a comprehensive strategy to protect international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, as highlighted in the statement released on Friday.

Despite these actions, the UK has reiterated its commitment to avoiding deeper involvement in the broader conflict.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, cautioned his British counterpart against aiding US and Israeli actions against Iran, warning that such support could escalate tensions further.

Araghchi later expressed on social media that the majority of British citizens oppose involvement in the US-Israel conflict regarding Iran.

"By allowing UK bases to be used for aggression against Iran, Mr. Starmer is endangering British lives," he stated, emphasizing Iran's right to self-defense.

In response, the UK government has warned Iran against targeting British bases, territories, or interests, highlighting the potential for further escalation.

Tensions have surged following Iran's launch of two ballistic missiles aimed at Diego Garcia, a key US-UK military base in the Indian Ocean.

Neither missile hit its intended target; one reportedly malfunctioned mid-flight, while the other was intercepted by a US naval defense system, though it remains uncertain if it was successfully neutralized.

This incident has raised alarms regarding Iran's missile capabilities, as Diego Garcia is located about 4,000 kilometers from Iran, indicating a potentially extended range.

The base is vital for regional security, hosting US bombers, nuclear submarines, and guided-missile destroyers.