USS Charlotte crew awarded Navy Unit Commendation for sinking Iranian frigate

The crew of the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Charlotte has been awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for their role in sinking the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena during Operation Epic Fury. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao presented the award, praising the crew's professionalism and dedication. In March 2026, the USS Charlotte reportedly fired an MK-48 torpedo at the Iranian warship as it transited the Indian Ocean 20 miles south of Sri Lanka, sinking it within minutes and killing approximately 80 people. 32 survivors were rescued. This marked the first confirmed torpedo kill by a U.S. submarine since World War II, when the USS Torsk sank two Japanese frigates on August 14, 1945.

First published Aug 4, 02:06 PM UTCUpdated Jul 21, 07:57 PM UTC1 reports · 1 sources

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USS Charlotte crew awarded Navy Unit Commendation for sinking Iranian frigate

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USS Charlotte crew awarded Navy Unit Commendation for sinking Iranian frigateMilitary TimesWesternJul 21, 07:57 PM UTC

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