IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps)
Role and Naval Mandate
The IRGC, also known as Sepah or Pasdaran, is a branch of the Iranian Armed Forces constitutionally mandated to protect the Islamic Republic's ideological integrity — distinct from the regular Iranian Army (Artesh), which handles conventional defence. The IRGC Navy (IRGCN) operates in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz using asymmetric warfare doctrines: fast-attack craft, naval mines, and swarm tactics rather than traditional naval engagements.
- Established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution; reports directly to Iran's Supreme Leader
- Designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) by the US in April 2019 — the first time a state actor's military branch received this designation
- The IRGCN functions as Iran's de facto coast guard in the Persian Gulf and strait approaches
- Doctrine: asymmetric or "guerrilla navy" tactics — prioritises harassment, interdiction, and mine warfare over fleet engagement
● Tracked since April 18, 2026 · last seen May 05, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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