28.03.2026 19:50
As the first month of the attacks by the US and Israel on Iran comes to an end, a significant step signaling a ground operation has emerged from the Washington front. The US Central Command announced that the USS Tripoli amphibious assault ship, which includes 3,500 sailors and Marines, has arrived at its duty station in the Middle East.
As the first month of the attacks by the US and Israel on Iran comes to an end, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that the USS Tripoli amphibious assault ship, which includes 3,500 sailors and Marines, has arrived at its duty station in the Middle East.
ACTING AS THE FLAGSHIP
In a statement made on CENTCOM's social media account, it was stated: "Sailors and Marines of the US Navy reached the area of responsibility of the US Central Command with the USS Tripoli (LHA 7) ship on March 27. The USS Tripoli, an America-class amphibious assault ship, serves as the flagship of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group / 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, consisting of approximately 3,500 sailors and Marines. This force includes transport and attack aircraft, as well as amphibious assault and tactical elements."
USS TRIPOLI SHIP
The USS Tripoli, which is approximately 260 meters long and has a displacement of 45,000 tons, stands out as an amphibious assault ship capable of carrying F-35 fighter jets and MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, as well as carrying landing elements to transport Marines to shore. The ship, which has been in service for about 6 years, is expected to have landing ships like USS New Orleans and USS San Diego in its amphibious task group under normal conditions. However, it is not yet clear whether these elements will accompany the Tripoli for this mission.
These types of amphibious units play an active role in missions such as evacuation operations, rapid raids, and military deployments to the shore. These structures, which bring together both land elements and air power on the same platform, can also accommodate personnel with special operations capabilities.