Iran to stage navy drills in Indian Ocean

Iran will hold massive navy drills in the northern areas of the Indian Ocean in the coming days, a navy commander said on Sunday.

The exercises -- code-named "Velayat 94" -- will be staged by January 20, Navy Lieutenant Commander Rear Admiral Gholamreza Khadem Bigham was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency as saying.

According to Xinhua, Khadem Bigham said the drill was aimed at evaluating the capabilities and testing the military equipment of the Iranian navy.

"Iran's presence in international waters and high seas and holding various navy drills indicate the Islamic republic's high level of preparedness and power," he added.