Iran launches air maneuvers near Strait of Hormuz

TEHRAN, Iran: Iran’s official IRNA news agency says the country’s air force is carrying out a drill near the strategic Strait of Hormuz in the Arabian Gulf, the passageway for nearly a third of all oil traded by sea.
Friday’s report says the drill involves the military’s and Revolutionary Guard fighter jets, including US-made F-4, French Mirage and Russian Sukhoi-22 planes. Five logistics and combat helicopters are also taking part in the exercise over the Arabian Gulf waters and the Sea of Oman.
It says the maneuver is a warning to Iran’s enemies that they face a quick, “stern response” in case of force toward Iran.
The exercise is part of annual manifestations on the anniversary of the start of the eight-year war Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein launched against Iran in 1980.