The U.S. Navy is dispatching a second destroyer to the U.S.-Mexico border for enhanced patrols. This move follows the USS Gravely’s deployment amid efforts to tackle immigration and drug trafficking. The destroyers will support Coast Guard operations, marking a rare escalation in naval activity in the region.
The United States Navy is set to deploy a second destroyer to patrol the waters near the U.S.-Mexico border this week. This decision follows the earlier deployment of the USS Gravely, which embarked from Virginia over the weekend, as part of an intensified effort to address immigration issues and combat drug trafficking under the Trump administration.
The USS Gravely is equipped with a Coast Guard law enforcement team, allowing it to engage in missions including drug interceptions and seizure operations. The deployment of these vessels comes amidst a broader initiative that has seen numerous military personnel stationed at the southern border and the designation of Mexican drug cartels as terrorist entities.
On Tuesday, a statement from the Coast Guard indicated plans for a second warship’s deployment, noting successful drug trafficking interdictions and emphasizing collaboration with multiple Navy vessels. Cmdr. Liza Dougherty from Northern Command refrained from confirming specifics about the second destroyer but highlighted ongoing support for Coast Guard operations.
Adm. Kevin Lunday of the Coast Guard noted, “these Navy ships provide unique capability to complement U.S. Coast Guard operations to achieve 100% operational control of the border.” The USS Gravely, unlike traditional Coast Guard assets, boasts significant firepower, including 96 missiles, reflecting a substantial escalation in operational capability.
The mission of these destroyers is primarily to assist the Coast Guard in border patrol tasks. Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich mentioned that the USS Gravely will be actively involved in drug interdiction efforts. While the specific duration of the deployment remains undisclosed for security reasons, the term “scheduled deployment” suggests the potential for an extended mission.
The simultaneous deployment of two Navy warships to these waters is a rare occurrence, as Northern Command generally focuses on homeland defense. The Navy’s historical engagement in such extended missions in this region has been limited since events like the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Battle of Vera Cruz in 1914.
In summary, the Navy’s decision to deploy a second destroyer alongside the USS Gravely underscores its commitment to enhancing border security and addressing drug trafficking in cooperation with the Coast Guard. This aligns with the previous administration’s policies aimed at controlling immigration and curbing activities of drug cartels. The historical context highlights that such a military presence in these waters is unusual, indicating a significant shift in operational strategy.
Original Source: www.military.com
