Iran has sent six navy ships to the Gulf of Aden and other international waters to preserve the country’s territorial integrity in its southern waters.

The decision was made after the country conducted a strategic missile test that has raised threat concerns from other competing nations.

The Iranian military is highly prepared and capable to respond to any foreign threat to the country’s shores, Foxnews reports, quoting a senior navy commander.

Experts believe that the step indicates continued defiance to US and UN Security Council efforts to end the deadlock over country’s nuclear programme.

Iran could block the sea route through which about two-fifth of world oil is shipped, if the country was attacked over its nuclear programme.