America's Top Shooters Ready to Target Iran

In a move to deter Iran and constrain its tactical options, the U.S. has deployed a formidable force, including F-22 fighter jets, guided missile submarines, and aircraft carriers, to the Middle East.

With the recent announcement from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, America's top strike options are now positioned to target Iran. The deployment of these forces serves two key purposes: deterrence and precision strike capability.

The U.S. Central Command has been tasked with preparing for a potential attack on Iran or its proxies if Tehran retaliates against Israel. To this end, the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln has been expedited to the Middle East, joining the USS Theodore Roosevelt, which is already conducting sustained flight operations.

America's Top Shooters Ready to Target Iran

Additionally, the guided missile submarine USS Georgia has been positioned in the Eastern Mediterranean, armed with 154 precision Tomahawk Land Attack Cruise Missiles. These missiles have a range of approximately 1,000 miles, providing ample coverage into Iran.

Eight U.S. Navy destroyers are also deployed in the region, six in the Persian Gulf and two in the Red Sea. These destroyers are equipped with Tomahawk missiles and Standard Missiles for air defense, as demonstrated during Iran's previous attack on Israel in April.

America's Top Shooters Ready to Target Iran

Beyond these naval assets, a squadron of F-35C carrier jets flown by Marines is also on standby. These stealthy aircraft possess advanced radar and sensor capabilities that are known to intimidate Iran.

F/A-18E Superhornets, made famous by Tom Cruise in "Top Gun: Maverick," are also part of Carrier Air Wing 11 aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt. These aircraft have been active in air patrols against Houthi aggression in the Red Sea.

America's Top Shooters Ready to Target Iran

Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles, known as "Mud Eagles," are another ground-attack variant deployed in the theater. These aircraft are true fighter-bombers with experienced pilots who have thousands of combat hours from the anti-ISIS war.

Austin's choice of these forces provides Central Command with a sustained, precision strike capability against military targets in Iran or its militia groups. B-2 bombers and B-1 bombers may also be deployed, providing additional strike options.

America's Top Shooters Ready to Target Iran

The deployment of these American strike forces is not only aimed at deterring Iran but also at reassuring regional allies. Britain, France, and Jordan may also contribute forces to the operation.

China, Iran's top ally, has expressed support for Iran's self-defense rights. However, Gen. Erik Kurilla at U.S. Central Command has the necessary resources to defend, deter, or strike back if necessary.

America's Top Shooters Ready to Target Iran

As the U.S. and Iran navigate this crisis, it is imperative to recognize the American men and women who are making these vital deployments in the Middle East. Their contributions are essential to maintaining stability and preventing escalation in the region.