UK Submarine Armed with Tomahawks Arrives Near Strait of Hormuz Amid Tensions

British navy sources and media reports say the nuclear-powered submarine HMS Anson is operating in the Arabian Sea. Al Jazeera, citing the Daily Mail, reported the vessel moved into a position near the northern approaches to the Strait of Hormuz.

The submarine left Perth, Australia, on March 6. Reports of its arrival were published on March 22.

The vessel is armed with Tomahawk Block IV land-attack missiles. Each missile has an approximate range of 1,600 kilometres. HMS Anson also carries Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes.

Geopolitical and military context

The deployment comes amid threats by the United States to expand military operations against Iran. Western naval presence in the region has increased sharply in recent weeks.

The UK has agreed to broaden US access to British military bases. CNN reported the facilities could be used for strikes on Iranian missile sites tied to attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

Ministers authorised expanded use for defined defensive operations. The aim is to degrade missile sites and capabilities used to target commercial and military shipping.

Policy, politics and reactions

Downing Street said access was granted for a specific, limited defensive purpose. Officials stressed Britain remains committed to defending its people and allies without being drawn into a wider conflict.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called the change a major U-turn. In Tehran, Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi warned the move could be seen as participation in aggression.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially declined Washington’s request on legal grounds. He later supported defensive measures after British military assets in the Middle East faced attacks.

The UK submarine carries Tomahawks and Spearfish torpedoes while positioning near the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions. The deployment underscores heightened regional risk and close allied coordination.