Iran has strategically mined the Strait of Hormuz as a defensive measure following US and Israeli airstrikes that began on February 28. This move allows Iran to exert control over approximately 20% of the world's oil and gas transit, potentially charging tolls exceeding $1 million per ship. The mining also serves as a counter to the US naval blockade imposed on Iranian ports, with Iran stating it will not fully reopen the strait unless free passage for its vessels is guaranteed. However, US officials report that Iran has lost track of many of these mines, complicating the situation further.

In response, the US Navy is deploying advanced unmanned systems, such as the Knifefish and Kingfish underwater drones, to clear these minefields. These robots utilize sonar technology to detect mines from a safe distance, allowing for the destruction of threats without endangering human divers. Given the narrowness of the Strait of Hormuz, traditional crewed minesweepers would be highly vulnerable to attacks. The shift towards unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) not only enhances safety but also expedites the mapping of seabeds, which is crucial for establishing safe corridors for commercial shipping and stabilizing global oil prices.