The US Navy and Marines are increasing their presence and capabilities in the Persian Gulf region amid rising tensions with Iran over its nuclear program and its attempts to seize commercial tankers.
The Pentagon has sent more than 3,000 personnel and Marines, along with the USS Bataan, an amphibious assault ship that can carry dozens of aircraft and landing craft, to join the 5th Fleet based in Bahrain.
The Marines are training to escort and protect commercial shipping from Iranian harassment and aggression, which has escalated in recent months.
The US also deployed stealth F-35 fighters and other warplanes to the region to enhance its air power and deterrence.
The US military buildup comes as the diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran have stalled, and as a UN sanctions deadline on Iran approaches in October. Iran has been enriching uranium closer to weapons-grade levels and developing new ballistic missiles that can target US ships and bases.
Iran has also been involved in a series of attacks on oil tankers and facilities in the Gulf region since 2019, which have strained its relations with its Arab neighbors and raised the risk of a wider conflict.
The US hopes that its show of force will persuade Iran to return to the negotiating table and comply with the nuclear deal, as well as to respect the freedom of navigation and security of commercial shipping in the Gulf. However, Iran has denounced the US military presence as a threat to its sovereignty and regional stability, and has vowed to continue its nuclear activities and defend its interests.
The situation remains volatile and unpredictable, as both sides are testing each other’s resolve and red lines.
For more information on this topic, you can check out these news sources:
• U.S. Marines Are at the Ready to Protect Commercial Ships in the Persian Gulf
• Why is US sending 3,000 Navy, Marines force to Persian Gulf?
• Analysis: Buildup of American forces in Persian Gulf a new signal of worsening US-Iran conflict
About the USS Bataan
Aircraft carried
Actual mix depends on the mission
Standard Complement:
6 AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft
or
6 F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters
4 AH-1W /Z Super Cobra /Viper attack helicopter
12 MV-22B Osprey assault support tiltrotor
4 CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopters
3–4 UH-1Y Venom utility helicopters
Assault:
22+ MV-22B Osprey assault support tiltrotor
Sea Control:
20 AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft
or
20 F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters
6 SH-60F/HH-60H ASW helicopters