The United States has deployed additional A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft to the Middle East. They may join strikes against the Houthis in Yemen.

Air & Space Forces reported on this.

These attack aircraft are part of the 124th Fighter Wing, Idaho Air National Guard.

More than 300 Airmen from the 124th Fighter Wing, along with the attack aircraft, were sent to southwest Asia within U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility on March 29.

This move followed the earlier announcement in March about the deployment of additional American combat aircraft to the Middle East as part of a force buildup against the Yemeni Houthis. The exact role of the A-10 attack aircraft remains unknown.

The Air Force added that the duration of the deployment depends on the “needs of the U.S. Air Force and the mission requirements of combat commands.” Meanwhile, local media report that the wing will be stationed in the area for approximately six months.

In December of last year, the U.S. Air Force deployed A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft for strikes against Assad’s forces on the left bank of the Euphrates.

It is worth noting that last month, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the U.S. military to begin “decisive and powerful military actions against Houthi terrorists” in Yemen.

The reason for such actions was cited as the “relentless campaign of piracy, violence, and terrorism against American and other ships, aircraft, and drones.”

Following this, American aviation began bombing Houthi targets in Yemen. Additionally, U.S. Navy ships are launching strikes with Tomahawk cruise missiles.

U.S. officials stated that the strikes against the Houthis are also intended to send a warning signal to Iran.

Trump is seeking a deal with Iran to prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons but has left open the possibility of military action if the Iranians refuse to negotiate.