Tehran, February 26 (RHC)-- A senior commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says the Iranian Navy can sink giant U.S. aircraft carriers if they pose a threat to Iran's maritime interests, Press TV reports.

Rear Admiral Ali Fadavi, commander of the IRGC Navy, said Wednesday that Iranian vessels will have no difficulty targeting state-of-the-art aircraft carriers operated by the U.S. Marine Corps if any battle erupts in the future. Fadavi made the remarks in an interview with Press TV after his forces in the IRGC Navy started a major drill in the Persian Gulf waters south of Iran earlier in the day -- including a military exercise to blow up a mock U.S. aircraft carrier.

The drill, code-named the Great Prophet 9, saw nearly 400 rounds of 107-millimeter missiles strike a huge model of a U.S. aircraft carrier, showing the capability of the IRGC Navy in countering potential threats posed by the enemies.

During the interview, Fadavi elaborated on the message of IRGC's drill, saying such maneuvers are assuring for Iran's friends and intimidating for enemies. The Iranian admiral further highlighted the significance of the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf region and described it as "the most strategic and sensitive part in the world," over which Iran has full control.

The energy security of the world depends on the Strait of Hormuz, he said, adding that Iran is closely monitoring the developments in the area and other countries should rest assured that the Islamic Republic can guarantee the security of the strategic waterway.

He further criticized the United States for fueling insecurity and instability in the Persian Gulf region by sending its warships and weaponry to the area over the past few years.