@ Glojo,
Thank you for your kind post. I unfortunately don't have the time to do justice to the questions asked.
As for mines. It is relatively easy to deploy mines, as long as much of the onshore prep work is carried out correctly. Mine detection and clearance is a right pain, and can be extremely time consuming. It is extremely difficult to be certain that a mine is "not there".
Iran is said to possess mine types including nonmagnetic, free-floating, and remote controlled mines, along with pressure, acoustic, magnetic, and rocket-propelled rising mines.
Mine laying actually causes problems for all sides. The Iranians may find it tactically better to use thier small fast craft as weapons. Even better, and cheaper, is the use of land based missile systems.
@SASless
The United States has loads of mine hunters, sweepers and the CH53E Sea Dragon. Not sure how many are currently deployed in the Gulf. Will this number be increasing?
Iran does not currently possess any AIP submarines.
Last edited by hval; 5th Jan 2012 at 11:45.
Reason: Iran mine types & Iran AIP