The US is moving quickly to boost Israel’s military. A look at what assistance it’s providing

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The United States has swiftly initiated a series of actions aimed at bolstering Israel’s military capabilities in response to the recent attack by Hamas. Following the tragic incident, the U.S. has been quick to deploy warships and aircraft to the region, poised to provide Israel with the necessary support.

A second U.S. carrier strike group is set to depart from Norfolk, Virginia, marking a significant reinforcement. Numerous aircraft are en route to U.S. military bases across the Middle East. Additionally, special operations forces have been deployed to assist Israel’s military in planning and intelligence operations.

This strategic buildup by the United States underscores its deep concerns that the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel could escalate into a more perilous regional confrontation. As of now, the primary objective of these deployed forces is to establish a formidable presence that acts as a deterrent, discouraging any potential exploitation of the situation by groups such as Hezbollah or Iran. However, it’s important to note that the capabilities of the U.S. forces sent extend beyond mere deterrence.

In parallel, the U.S. is expediting the shipment of essential munitions and interceptors to support Israel in its battle against Hamas.

Weapons and Special Operations Forces:
The United States is providing critical personnel and much-needed munitions to Israel. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has confirmed the involvement of a small group of special operations forces who are assisting Israel with intelligence and planning. Contrary to some reports, these forces have not been tasked with hostage rescue, but they stand ready to do so if required.

Furthermore, the U.S. is collaborating with American defense companies to expedite pre-existing weapons orders for Israel. Of utmost priority is the acceleration of munition deliveries for Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system.

President Joe Biden has emphasized the urgency of resupplying Iron Dome munitions and air defense systems, ensuring that Israel has the necessary assets to protect its cities and citizens. The Iron Dome system is designed to intercept rockets approaching Israeli cities, and it has demonstrated its effectiveness in countering the majority of the over 5,000 rockets fired by Hamas during this conflict.

Raytheon, a prominent U.S. defense contractor, plays a key role in producing missile components for Iron Dome, and the U.S. Army maintains two Iron Dome systems in its inventory.

Navy Ships and Planes:
One conspicuous element of the U.S. response is the repositioning of the Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group towards Israel, immediately following its joint exercise with the Italian Navy. The carrier serves multiple functions, including command and control operations, information warfare, surveillance through E2-Hawkeye planes, and deployment of F-18 fighter jets capable of intercepting threats or striking targets.

Moreover, the Gerald R. Ford carrier boasts significant humanitarian capabilities, such as an onboard hospital equipped with an ICU and emergency room, along with a medical team comprising medics, surgeons, and doctors. The carrier also operates helicopters for transporting critical supplies and evacuating victims.

In addition to this carrier group, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower carrier strike group is set to depart from Norfolk, Virginia, potentially doubling the U.S. Navy’s presence in the region. There is a possibility that the Biden administration may extend the deployment of the Gerald R. Ford to maintain both strike groups in the area.

Air Force Warplanes:
The Pentagon has issued orders to deploy additional warplanes, reinforcing existing A-10, F-15, and F-16 squadrons at bases throughout the Middle East, with the readiness to send more if necessary.

The U.S. Air Force already maintains substantial airpower in the region, primarily utilized for manned and unmanned operations. This includes operations in Syria, where an Air Force F-16 recently intercepted a Turkish drone posing a threat to U.S. ground forces.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall has revealed that U.S. Air Force C-17s have conducted landings and departures in Israel. These transport planes were engaged in the retrieval of U.S. military personnel who were present for a pre-scheduled military exercise that had not yet commenced when the hostilities began.

While specific details about additional missions for U.S. airpower in response to the ongoing conflict remain undisclosed, it is evident that the United States is committed to providing comprehensive support to Israel during these challenging times.

Please note that this information is based on available reports and statements from U.S. officials and may be subject to updates as the situation evolves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Support

More about Support

• U.S. Sends Military Assistance to Israel Amid Conflict with Hamas
• Biden: Resupplying Iron Dome Munitions a Priority
• Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group Redirected to Israel
• U.S. Air Force’s Role in the Middle East
• Iron Dome: Israel’s Missile Defense System
• Israel-Hamas Conflict Overview
• USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Deployment
• U.S. Military Assistance in Response to Conflict