Though completed in 1980, Kharg was not present for more than half of the Iran–Iraq War. She was added to the order of battle in 1984 and served almost three years in the war, supporting Iranian warships by offering refuelling services and carrying ammunition and stores.[23] In August 1987, Kharg led a fleet of six vessels, including IRIS Riazi and aided by two Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters, to conduct a minesweeping operation in the Sea of Oman.