The U.S. Navy plans to deploy a second destroyer to patrol near the U.S.-Mexico border, following the USS Gravely’s deployment. This initiative is part of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown and aims to assist the Coast Guard in drug interdiction missions. The unusual nature of this dual deployment indicates heightened military involvement in border security efforts.
The United States Navy is set to deploy a second destroyer to patrol the waters off the U.S. and Mexico by the end of this week, following the deployment of the USS Gravely over the weekend. This move is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement at the border, as confirmed by a military official who requested anonymity to discuss sensitive plans.
The USS Gravely departed from a naval base in Virginia and is now patrolling areas around the U.S.-Mexico border, joined by another destroyer from the West Coast. The deployer vessels include a Coast Guard law enforcement detachment, enabling them to conduct operations such as drug interdictions. This initiative supports ongoing military operations at the southern border, where thousands of troops have already been stationed.
On Tuesday, the Coast Guard hinted at the deployment of a second warship by noting its success in drug interdictions and the involvement of multiple naval vessels. Though Cmdr. Liza Dougherty, a spokesperson for Northern Command, did not confirm the second destroyer’s involvement, the Coast Guard’s communication referred to the naval support in plural terms.
Adm. Kevin Lunday, the Coast Guard’s acting commandant, highlighted the unique capabilities that Navy ships bring to support Coast Guard missions, aiming for complete operational control of the border. Unlike Coast Guard cutters, Navy destroyers like the Gravely are heavily armed and capable of conducting extensive military operations.
Furthermore, Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich stated that the Gravely would engage in missions targeting drug trafficking. While the specific duration of the destroyers’ deployments is uncertain, the terminology of “scheduled deployment” suggests a multi-month mission is planned. The dual deployment of warships in U.S. waters is considered unusual, as Northern Command typically operates under specific defense mandates and previous deployments of extended duration have not been commonplace since major historical events involving the U.S. and Mexico occurred well over a century ago.
In conclusion, the U.S. Navy’s forthcoming deployment of a second destroyer to patrol the waters near the U.S.-Mexico border highlights a significant military initiative aimed at enhancing immigration enforcement and countering drug trafficking. This strategic decision underscores the evolving role of naval forces in domestic security operations and indicates a broader commitment to border control. The unusual nature of this dual deployment reflects the seriousness with which the current administration views border security.
Original Source: www.military.com
