Tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate as the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) just recently confirmed that one of its Ohio-class submarines has arrived into its area of responsibility (AOR). At this time, the Biden administration has not yet made an official statement on the matter.
The AOR includes 21 countries spanning from Northeast Africa across the Middle East to Central and South Asia, covering 4 million square miles. This is a significant show of force by the United States Navy whose mission is to maintain freedom, security, and stability worldwide.
On November 5, 2023, an Ohio-class submarine arrived in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. pic.twitter.com/iDgUFp4enp
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) November 5, 2023
The Ohio-class submarine is not just any naval vessel; it is a class of nuclear-powered submarines operated by the United States Navy and considered the largest ever built. It measures 560 feet long and 42 feet wide, displacing 18,750 tons when submerged.
Most notably, these ships carry approximately half of America’s active strategic thermonuclear warheads capable of erasing a country from the map if used for aggressive purposes.
With tensions already high in this region due to military activity such as airstrikes and conflicts between various groups vying for power, nuclear deterrence plays a key role in maintaining peace among nations that might be tempted to engage in acts that could endanger global peace and security.
The presence of an Ohio-class submarine sends a powerful message that America will not tolerate aggression or hostile intentions against our allies or interests abroad.
It remains unclear what actions will follow this deployment and how other nations may respond but there may certainly be some form of repercussion from this move by CENTCOM.
This is a developing story.
