In the late 1980s, the U.S. found itself increasingly involved in the Persian Gulf due to rising tensions following the Iran-Iraq War and the protection of oil shipping lanes vital to global commerce. Iran began to target neutral shipping assets, leading to retaliatory measures from the United States. Operation Praying Mantis was launched in April 1988, following a series of Iranian assaults on U.S. allies' maritime interests, including the attack on the oil tanker MV Sea Isle City, which had a U.S. flag. The operation aimed to target Iranian oil platforms and vessels to deter further aggressions and protect American interests in the region. The U.S. fleet, equipped with advanced naval technology, employed air strikes along with naval gunfire against Iranian military targets. This operation showcased both naval air power and the strategic importance of the Gulf region during this period of instability.

As part of the operation, the U.S. successfully executed strikes against multiple Iranian naval vessels and drilling platforms, resulting in significant Iranian casualties and damage to their naval capabilities. The engagement included the deployment of guided-missile destroyers and carrier-based aircraft, which conducted over 40 sorties, marking a high tempo of operation. The conflict lasted only a few hours but had lasting effects on U.S.-Iran relations and geopolitical dynamics in the region. The operation concluded with the U.S. claiming a decisive victory without sustaining significant losses. The aftermath of Praying Mantis signaled a shift in naval warfare tactics and strategies, emphasizing the effective use of air power in maritime confrontations.

The implications of Operation Praying Mantis extended beyond immediate military outcomes. It illustrated the willingness of the U.S. to engage militarily in the Persian Gulf, setting a precedent for future interactions in the region. The operation also reinforced the notion of sea control in modern conflicts, highlighting the need for robust naval forces to protect trade routes and respond to hostile actions effectively. As a significant episode in the tensions between the U.S. and Iran, it contributed to the ongoing strategic considerations that would shape U.S. foreign policy in the decades to follow.