How the Navy Is Changing Hearts and Minds in the Persian Gulf
01-14-2016
The U.S. Navy operates 13 coastal patrol boats in the Persian Gulf. They perform a similar role in the Gulf as the Riverine Command boat that was seized by the Iranian Navy on Tuesday.
These small vessels have been patrolling the Gulf since the early 2000s.
Their mission is to provide support and security to local merchant and fishing vessels, and collect information on smuggling, piracy, and the everyday lives of local sailors in the region.
Another part of their mission? Changing hearts and minds in the region.
Watch video from the crew from the USS Squall as they board an Iranian fishing boat at the request of the vessel's captain to treat a sick crew member. Click play to watch
