The Proceedings Podcast EP. 453: The Tanker War
Jul 5, 2025
Quentin Zimmer, a Marine Corps Second Lieutenant and author, delves into the crucial maritime battles of the Iran-Iraq War. He explains how the U.S. Navy navigated the dangerous waters during the 1980s tanker war, employing innovative strategies like reflagging to protect vessels. The discussion highlights challenges faced in Operation Earnest Will, including a pivotal mine strike that impacted naval tactics. Zimmer shares valuable lessons from the USS Samuel B. Roberts incident, emphasizing the lasting relevance of these historical conflicts in today's military strategies.
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War's Shift To Maritime Domain
- The Iran-Iraq War spread from land to maritime domains causing international tensions in the Persian Gulf.
- This shift highlights how regional conflicts can have global strategic implications, especially during Cold War rivalries.
Bridgerton Mine Strike Debut
- The first convoy escorting Kuwaiti tankers was the USS Bridgerton, which struck a mine on the maiden voyage.
- This incident revealed significant U.S. Navy unpreparedness for mine warfare during Operation Earnest Will.
U.S. Navy Neglected Mine Warfare
- The U.S. Navy lacked sufficient mine sweeping vessels and institutional emphasis on mine warfare at that time.
- This neglect contributed to vulnerability despite overall naval strength in other warfare domains.