Iran navy says it will launch Iran-built destroyer

Iran's navy plans to launch the first Iranian-built destroyer soon, the official IRNA news agency quoted a naval commander as saying on Tuesday.

"Soon the first Iranian-made destroyer will be launched ... and will surprise the world's military community with its facilities, equipment, capabilities and technology," commander Darioush Ebrahimnejad told a news conference.

He called it one of the most modern ships of its kind in the world, but did not give details or say when it would be officially unveiled. Destroyers are fast warships with guns and torpedoes used to protect other ships.

Last month, state television said Iran's navy had held more than a week of war games in the Gulf using tactical submarines and small vessels carrying missile launchers.