Statement from Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on steps to increase force posture > US Department of Defense > Release

After detailed discussions with President Biden about the recent escalation by Iran and its proxy forces throughout the Middle East, I today directed a series of additional steps to further strengthen the Department of Defense’s position in the region. These steps would strengthen regional deterrence efforts, increase the protection of US forces in the region, and help defend Israel.

First, I redirected the movement of the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower to the Central Command area of ​​responsibility. This constitutes the carrier strike group in addition to the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, currently operating in the eastern Mediterranean. It will increase our force posture and enhance our capabilities and ability to respond to a range of emergency situations.

I have also activated the deployment of the High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Battery as well as additional Patriot battalions to locations throughout the region to increase force protection for U.S. forces.

Finally, I have placed additional forces on standby for deployment orders as part of prudent contingency planning, to increase their readiness and ability to respond quickly as required.

I will continue to evaluate our force posture requirements in the region and consider deploying additional capabilities as necessary.