WASHINGTON, DC: In a significant display of solidarity and support, the United States has taken decisive action to bolster Israel's defenses amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced on Sunday afternoon, October 8, 2023, that the US military is deploying an aircraft carrier strike group and additional military assets closer to Israel.
The move is intended to send a clear message of unwavering support for Israel and to ensure readiness to respond to any potential threats.
The centerpiece of this deployment is the USS Gerald R Ford, the United States Navy's newest and most advanced aircraft carrier.
USS Gerald R Ford: Centerpiece of support
This formidable vessel, along with its complement of approximately 5,000 sailors and a deck filled with warplanes, will be accompanied by cruisers and destroyers.
The deployment's primary objective is to be prepared for various scenarios, including intercepting potential weapon shipments to Hamas and conducting surveillance operations, NBC News reported.
Secretary Austin outlined the mission, stating, "We have also taken steps to augment US Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons in the region. In addition, the United States government will be rapidly providing the Israel Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including munitions."
The deployment is a concrete demonstration of the United States' unwavering support for Israel's defense efforts in the face of ongoing terrorist attacks.
Secretary Austin emphasized, "Strengthening our joint force posture, in addition to the material support that we will rapidly provide to Israel, underscores the United States' ironclad support for the Israel Defense Forces and the Israeli people."
Many on social media lauded the move. "It’s a good move. It shows strength, support, and readiness in case tensions in the region high-ten," one posted on X.
"I hope Hamas realizes they are about to be turned into a parking lot," another quipped.
"They shouldn't have taken American citizens hostage," someone else offered.
General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, the commander of US Central Command (USCENTCOM), echoed this sentiment, stating, "USCENTCOM stands firmly with our Israeli and regional partners to address the risks of any party seeking to expand the conflict."
However, it's important to note that the assets, particularly the ships, will take several days to be fully positioned in the eastern Mediterranean. Additionally, the United States is actively considering plans for a possible noncombatant evacuation to ensure the safety of American citizens in Israel.
While no decision has been made, officials are exploring various options, including the potential use of Navy ships to evacuate US citizens from the region.
More about USS Gerald R Ford
The USS Gerald R Ford (CVN-78) is the lead ship of its class and serves as a United States Navy aircraft carrier. It is named in honor of the 38th President of the United States, Gerald Ford, who served during World War II aboard the light aircraft carrier Monterey in the Pacific Theater.
Originally scheduled for delivery in 2015, the Gerald R Ford was officially delivered to the Navy on May 31, 2017, and formally commissioned by President Donald Trump on July 22, 2017. As of 2023, it holds the distinction of being the world's largest aircraft carrier and the largest warship ever constructed.
Powered by two highly enriched uranium nuclear reactors, it can achieve a top speed of approximately 30 knots (55.5 kilometers per hour). Equipped with cutting-edge technology, it is capable of executing a wide range of missions, from combat operations to humanitarian assistance.
Some of its innovative features include the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), which enhances speed control and acceleration, and the Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) System, which ensures the safe recovery of aircraft.
The carrier also boasts advanced weapons elevators (AWEs) and the capability to carry up to 90 aircraft, 15 more than the Nimitz class.
The aircraft complement of the USS Gerald R Ford includes a diverse array of aircraft, such as the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler Electronic Attack Aircraft, C-2 Greyhound, E-2D Hawkeye, F-35C Lightning II, SH-60 Seahawk helicopters, and unmanned combat aerial vehicles.
Notably, the carrier may eventually accommodate the MQ-25 Stingray, the world's first operational, carrier-based unmanned aircraft.
