The United States is continuing to build its military presence in the Gulf as its war with Iran enters its second month.The February 28 launch of “Operation Epic Fury”, the joint US-Israeli air campaign targeting Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure, has continued for more than four weeks with strikes across Iran, killing thousands.Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on Tuesday that the US had deployed a third aircraft carrier, the USS George HW Bush, to join two carrier groups already in the region – the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea, and the USS Gerald Ford, which is currently undergoing maintenance and repairs in Croatia.On board these carriers and their accompanying warships are thousands of sailors, Marines and specialised support personnel. Al Jazeera explains what the various forces sent to the Middle East are and their combat capabilities. (Al Jazeera)What is a Carrier Strike Group (CSG)?The military doesn’t deploy an aircraft carrier by itself. A Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is the aircraft carrier plus its escort ships and support units that act as a floating base. As of April 1, the USS Abraham Lincoln is the only carrier currently launching daily combat sorties against Iranian targets. The USS George HW Bush is currently in transit and is expected to eventually replace the Ford, which has been on an extended deployment in the Mediterranean.A CSG typically includes:
An aircraft carrier.
Approximately 60-75 fighter jets and helicopters.
Usually 2-4 Burke-class destroyers.
A guided-missile cruiser.
Typically, a submarine for underwater protection.
Supply ships.
(Al Jazeera)What is an Amphibious Ready Group (ARG)?An Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) acts as a mini aircraft carrier and carries US Marines and equipment for land …
