US deploys 3rd aircraft carrier to Middle East amid ongoing Iran war: report

USS George HW Bush, a Nimitz-class carrier, holds 50-75 aircraft and speeds over 30 knots at sea op

The USS George HW Bush carrier strike group has departed Norfolk, Virginia, and is heading to the Middle East amid the ongoing US-Israeli war with Iran, a move that could raise the number of US carriers in the region to three, ABC News reported on Saturday, citing US officials.

The USS Gerald R Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike groups remain deployed in support of US operations in the Middle East, according to the broadcaster.

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The USS George H.W. Bush carrier strike group is being sent to the U.S. Central Command region, where American forces are operating around Iran.

It has just completed combat-readiness training, meaning it’s prepared for major operations.

Officials say it could join ongoing… pic.twitter.com/sdB8ICM3aC

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The USS Gerald R Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike groups are currently deployed in support of operations in the Middle East. However, the Ford is presently in Crete, undergoing repairs after a recent onboard fire.

USS George HW Bush is a Nimitz-class aircraft can hold 50 to 75 aircraft, including fighter jets, helicopters and surveillance planes with a maximum speed of 30+knots.

The carrier also holds advanced radar and electronic warfare systems. Built by Northrop Grumman, it has been active in service for 20 years.