Navy to Deploy Second Destroyer to U.S.-Mexico Border for Enhanced Patrols
The Navy plans to deploy a second destroyer to patrol U.S.-Mexico waters, following the USS Gravely’s deployment. This strategy aims to combat drug trafficking and enhance border enforcement in collaboration with the Coast Guard. Such dual deployments are historically rare and signify a robust military approach to immigration and security issues.
The United States Navy is preparing to deploy a second destroyer to patrol waters off the U.S. coast and Mexico by the end of this week. This follows the deployment of the USS Gravely on Saturday, as part of the Trump administration’s border and immigration crackdown, as confirmed by a U.S. official speaking under anonymity.
The USS Gravely, which left a Virginia naval base, will patrol the U.S.-Mexico border alongside a second destroyer that will transit from the West Coast. This mission is backed by the U.S. Northern Command, which announced that the Gravely is equipped with a Coast Guard law enforcement detachment enabling it to carry out missions like drug interdictions and vessel seizures.
Concurrent with the announcement, a statement from the Coast Guard hinted at the deployment of a second destroyer, highlighting successful operations against drug trafficking. Cmdr. Liza Dougherty stated the Navy warships would operate in concert with Coast Guard teams to enhance law enforcement capabilities at the border.
In the release, Adm. Kevin Lunday of the Coast Guard noted that the Navy ships provide distinct advantages that support Coast Guard operations aimed at maintaining full operational control of the border. Unlike Coast Guard vessels, Navy destroyers like the Gravely are heavily armed, possessing advanced missile systems, including Tomahawk missiles. However, officials assert that the destroyers’ role will be focused on assisting the Coast Guard in border patrol duties for the time being.
Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich of the Joint Staff elaborated that the Gravely will engage in missions targeting drug trafficking in the region. Though the exact duration of the destroyers’ deployment remains classified, the term “scheduled deployment” suggests a lengthy mission.
The deployment of two warships in this context is an uncommon occurrence for Northern Command, which typically oversees domestic defense operations. Historical reference indicates that simultaneous extended deployments are particularly rare, with previous notable incidents dating back to the Vera Cruz conflict in 1914.
This strategy underscores heightened military efforts regarding border security, as the U.S. grapples with immigration and drug-related challenges in the region.
In summary, the U.S. Navy is set to deploy a second destroyer to reinforce border patrol efforts alongside the USS Gravely. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat drug trafficking and enhance national security in collaboration with the Coast Guard. Notably, such deployments are historically rare, reflecting a significant military response to ongoing challenges at the southern U.S. border.
Original Source: www.military.com
