DoD: Bataan ARG ordered to deploy

In response to recent attempts by Iran to threaten the free flow of commerce in the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding waters, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has ordered the deployment of a portion of the BATAAN Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU).

The readiness group is comprised of the USS Bataan, USS Carter Hall and associated personnel and equipment into the USCENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR).

These assets will be in addition to previously approved forces comprising F-35s, F-16s and guided missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG-116).  

Through these actions, the U.S. is demonstrating commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and deterring Iranian destabilization activities in the region. 

The U.S. will continue to work with like-minded allies and partners who are committed to the free flow of commerce to take appropriate, coordinated actions against threats to this fundamental principle of the rules-based international order. (DoD 07/20/23)