Navy Increases Patrol Presence with Second Destroyer off U.S.-Mexico Border

The Navy is deploying a second destroyer to patrol U.S.-Mexico waters, joining the USS Gravely, as part of the Trump’s administration’s border security efforts. The vessels, enhanced with Coast Guard support, will undertake drug interdiction and immigration enforcement missions. This dual ship deployment is highly unusual and symbolizes a more robust military presence at the border.

The United States Navy is set to deploy a second destroyer by the end of this week to patrol the waters off the U.S. and Mexico, following the initial deployment of the USS Gravely on Saturday. This initiative is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to enhance border security amid ongoing immigration issues, a U.S. official disclosed to Military.com under the condition of anonymity.

The USS Gravely, which departed a naval base in Virginia, is accompanied by a Coast Guard law enforcement detachment that will facilitate operations like ship interdictions and drug seizures. The administration has previously mobilized numerous troops to the southern border and labeled Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organizations to reinforce its commitment to controlling border crossings.

The Coast Guard’s statement on Tuesday alluded to the deployment of a second warship when it highlighted its achievements in drug interdiction operations, confirming collaboration with multiple Navy vessels. Cmdr. Liza Dougherty from Northern Command did not confirm the deployment of the second destroyer.

The Coast Guard emphasized that the Navy ships will provide critical support to its operations, stating that they would work in concert with Coast Guard law enforcement teams. Adm. Kevin Lunday noted that these Navy assets offer distinctive capabilities that are essential for maintaining operational control over the border.

While a Navy destroyer, like the Gravely, is significantly more heavily armed than a Coast Guard cutter and can carry numerous missiles, the primary mission for both destroyers at this time is to assist the Coast Guard in border patrolling activities. Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich indicated that the Gravely’s involvement will focus on drug interdiction efforts.

The deployment of two Navy destroyers to the U.S.-Mexico border marks an unprecedented military move aimed at reinforcing border security. This strategic action is part of broader efforts by the Trump administration, demonstrating the commitment to enhancing law enforcement capabilities against drug trafficking and illegal immigration. The nature and duration of this deployment remain opaque, yet it symbolizes a significant military presence in an area that is typically not under Northern Command’s jurisdiction for extended operations.

Original Source: www.military.com