Harry S. Truman Strike Group Embarks on Strategic Mission in U.S. Central Command Territory

MANAMA, Bahrain – On December 14, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) entered the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, marking a significant operational deployment. This strategic movement includes the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) as the flagship, accompanied by the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, encompassing nine aviation squadrons. Additionally, essential personnel from Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 8, CVW-1, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28 are on board, bolstered by the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64), and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Stout (DDG 55) and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109).

This deployment marks the first instance since March 2020 that the HSTCSG has entered this region. The carrier strike group is poised to execute a spectrum of operations if necessary, focusing on U.S. national security priorities. These operations include defending both U.S. and allied forces and ensuring the security and stability of crucial maritime routes.

The operational scope within the U.S. 5th Fleet’s jurisdiction is expansive, covering approximately 2.5 million square miles of ocean. This area comprises the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, and parts of the Indian Ocean, alongside strategic maritime passages such as the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal, and the Strait of Bab al-Mandeb.