The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) entered the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility on December 14. The group includes the flagship USS Harry S. Truman, Carrier Air Wing 1 with nine aviation squadrons, and units from Carrier Strike Group 8 and Destroyer Squadron 28. Supporting ships include the USS Gettysburg, a guided-missile cruiser, and the guided-missile destroyers USS Stout and USS Jason Dunham.
This is the first deployment of the HSTCSG to the U.S. Central Command region since March 2020. The strike group’s return reflects the U.S. Navy’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a strong presence in this strategically important area.
The strike group is fully equipped to execute a wide range of carrier operations, including defending U.S. and allied forces and ensuring freedom of navigation. These missions are crucial for maintaining maritime security and stability in the region.
The U.S. 5th Fleet’s operational area spans approximately 2.5 million square miles, covering the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, and parts of the Indian Ocean. This region includes vital choke points such as the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal, and the Strait of Bab al-Mandeb.
The deployment of the HSTCSG reinforces U.S. readiness to respond to threats and uphold security. Operating in these critical waterways ensures the flow of maritime trade and strengthens partnerships with allies in the region.
