Why in News ?

• Largest warship of Iranian navy caught fire and sank in the Gulf of Oman, circumstances are still unclear. Kharg used to resupply other ships in fleet and conduct training exercises. It sank near Iranian port of Jask.

IRIS Kharg

• Kharg, named after Island Kharg, was a modified Ol-class fleet replenishment oiler of Islamic Republic of Iran Navy. It was built by Swan Hunter in United Kingdom, which was officially launched in 1977. It was largest naval vessel of Iran on the basis of tonnage.

Ol-class Tankers

• They were Royal Fleet Auxiliary “fast fleet tankers” which provides fuel, food, fresh water and other supplies to Royal Navy vessels across the world.

Kharg or Khark Island

• Kharg is a continental island, located in Persian Gulf and is about 25 km off the coast of Iran.