The USS Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), consisting of the USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7), USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD-28), and USS San Antonio (LPD-17), has departed from Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, after a delay caused by Hurricane Erin. The group is now en route to the Southern Caribbean Sea off the coast of Venezuela.
Joining the Iwo Jima ARG will be the Arleigh Burke-Class Guided-Missile Destroyers: USS Sampson (DDG-102), USS Gravely (DDG-107), and USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109). These vessels have already arrived in the U.S. Southern Command's Area of Responsibility, ready to support various missions in the region.
This deployment comes amid heightened tensions in the area, with the U.S. military maintaining a strong presence to address potential security challenges. The ARG's mission includes providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, in addition to strengthening regional partnerships.
The deployment reflects the U.S. commitment to stability in the Southern Caribbean, which has seen increased military activity in recent months. As previously reported, similar situations have arisen in various global hotspots, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and readiness.
