The reinforced naval footprint provides the US more operational options as President Trump is reportedly considering ramping up strikes on Iran after the midterm elections. The USS Roosevelt left port on Sunday, and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed Monday alongside the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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US Adds 3rd Aircraft Carrier and 10,000 Personnel to Middle East
War11 hours ago
The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group departed San Diego last weekend for the Middle East. This deployment will add about 10,000 sailors and marines to the region by the end of November and increases the total US aircraft carrier presence to 3. The Roosevelt joins the USS George H.W. Bush, which arrived in April, and the USS George Washington, which arrived in mid-August.
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