US Expands Naval Presence Near Iran

The U.S. Navy is expanding the number of naval combat ships operating in the region surrounding Iran.

According to AP News, the USS Nimitz nuclear-powered aircraft carrier is set to join the U.S. force in the area, accompanied by its escort ships. The USS Carl Vinson carrier strike group, which is already deployed in the region, is also expected to be reinforced.

The Navy is bolstering air defense capabilities to protect Israel. The USS Thomas Hudner destroyer, currently stationed in the eastern Mediterranean, will join the USS Arleigh Burke and USS The Sullivans destroyers.

These vessels carry a significant number of surface-to-air missiles, including SM-2 and SM-6 interceptors, as well as SM-3 systems capable of engaging Iranian ballistic missiles targeting Israel.

The move comes amid ongoing exchanges of fire between Israel and Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated he is prepared to strike Iran if attacks on Israel continue.

In addition to the nine warships, the U.S. is deploying more air assets, including F-16, F-22, and F-35 fighter jets.

About 30,000 U.S. troops are currently stationed in the Middle East, with the total number of American personnel in the region estimated at around 40,000.

On June 17, 2025, several U.S. tanker aircraft that had arrived in Europe for the Atlantic Trident 25 exercise were redeployed to the Middle East.

Of the 22 aircraft tankers that flew to Europe from the United States on June 16, about five proceeded toward the Middle East.

At least 11 additional aircraft also departed from European airfields and headed for the region.

Some flew circular routes over south-central Europe and the Balkans.