US Navy expands testing of mine-seeking sub during military maneuvers around Persian Gulf

9/27/2012

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The admiral in charge of the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet says a prototype mine-detecting drone was put through more tests during military exercises in and around the Persian Gulf this month.

The advanced sonar-equipped Kingfish sub is being evaluated by the Pentagon. Vice Admiral John W. Miller says the sub was used for the first time internationally during the maneuvers of more than 30 nations that wrapped up this week.

The Navy says drills were not designed to specifically confront a threat from Iran. Tehran has warned it would try to close the Gulf's strategic Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for sanctions over its nuclear program.

Miller told reporters Thursday that the Kingfish could eventually be deployed with the Bahrain-based 5th Fleet and other places around the world.