Geopolitics Decanted with Dmitri Alperovitch How to Reopen the Strait of Hormuz
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Mar 23, 2026 
Mark Montgomery, retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral with 30+ years and multiple carrier strike group commands, breaks down the fight for the Strait of Hormuz. He describes the layered military steps to counter mines, cruise missiles, drones and attack boats. He explains convoy operations, mine-clearance limits, why Kharg Island is a distraction, and the timeline for gradual reopening.
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Phased Military Campaign Needed To Reopen Hormuz
- Reopening the Strait Requires Phased Risk Reduction and Time.
- Mark Montgomery says commanders must strike mine/cruise missile storage and attack craft over weeks to reduce risk to an "acceptable" level before convoys start.
Escort Convoys With Layered Air And Aegis Destroyers
- Use Layered Air And Sea Defenses For Convoys.
- Montgomery recommends CAP of fighters, A-10s, armed helos plus Aegis destroyers (two per convoy) forward to blunt cruise missile and drone threats.
Minesweeping Comes First Even If Mines Haven't Been Observed
- Minesweeping Must Precede Convoys Even If No Mines Seen.
- Montgomery expects LCS mine modules and destroyer protection to sweep channels to reassure insurers and merchants despite limited intel of laid mines.