By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
The U.S. has recently augmented its naval presence in a demonstrative commitment to regional stability and deterrence against escalating tensions by moving the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) to the Mediterranean Sea. This ship is designed to deploy and support ground forces in amphibious assaults. It is equipped to facilitate a myriad of operations—from combat to humanitarian aid—thanks to its well-docked array of aircraft and landing craft.
The U.S. European Command (EUCOM) confirmed the entrance of the USS Wasp into the Mediterranean Sea on June 26th, as part of a scheduled deployment within the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR) area of operations. This deployment includes the USS Oak Hill and the USS New York, together forming the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). The combined force is strategically positioned to influence outcomes in the eastern Mediterranean, particularly in light of recent tensions between Hezbollah and Israel along Lebanon’s border.
The USS Wasp, a formidable Navy amphibious assault ship, serves multiple strategic roles, from force projection to crisis response. Its capability to support amphibious operations, coupled with the onboard 24th MEU, provides a potent deterrent in a region marked by fragile security dynamics. Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh highlighted the ship’s role in “promoting regional stability and deterring aggression,” underlining its operational readiness to support both combat operations and non-combatant evacuation scenarios if necessary.
Subsequently, the USS Wasp’s arrival in the Mediterranean is particularly notable when viewed against the backdrop of its prior engagements. Prior to this, the Wasp and its Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), which includes the USS New York (LPD-21) and USS Oak Hill (LSD-51), participated in the BALTOPS exercises in the Baltic Sea. Such exercises are crucial for enhancing interoperability with NATO allies and demonstrating U.S. naval power in key strategic waterways.
Comparatively, the ARG’s presence in the Mediterranean is not merely routine but a calculated deployment aimed at ensuring stability and showing a visible commitment to allies in the region. The last ARG/MEU in these waters, featuring the USS Bataan and the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, highlights a continuing pattern of force projection and readiness in vital global chokepoints.
Capt. Nakia Cooper, the commander of Amphibious Squadron 4, recently affirmed the operational readiness of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with confidence. “The Wasp ARG stands prepared,” declared Capt. Cooper. She expressed her strong belief in the exceptional abilities and steadfast dedication of her team, which has been consistently validated through intensive training exercises and real-world operations. Their demonstrated expertise and professionalism ensure that they are fully equipped to assist combatant commanders worldwide in whatever roles are required.
According to a recent report by the USNI, Cmdr. Sean Getway, the Wasp’s operations officer, the crew is expected to maintain a heightened state of vigilance during their Mediterranean deployment. This region, with its complex political dynamics and historical maritime significance, presents unique challenges that require constant operational readiness and strategic foresight. Now, the strategic maneuver of naval assets continues as the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), another major component of U.S. naval strategy, made a port call at Naval Station Souda Bay, Greece.
The Eisenhower is en route back to the U.S., paving the way for the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) to take over duties. The Roosevelt, having just departed Busan, South Korea, after participating in the tri-lateral Freedom Edge exercise, is set to join the U.S. 5th Fleet. This move is part of the larger “Prosperity Guardian” mission, aimed at securing merchant routes in the region.
