Iran shoots down MQ-9 drone east of Strait of Hormuz, claims new air defense system

Iran's Revolutionary Guard claims it shot down an MQ-9 drone east of the Strait of Hormuz using a new advanced air defense system. The claim is unverified and follows a pattern of periodic downings of US drones in the region, but the mention of a new system signals potential escalation in air defense capabilities. This could heighten tensions in a critical maritime chokepoint, affecting regional security and energy transit risk.