TEXAS — The U.S. Department of Defense has deployed the USS Gravely, a U.S. Navy ballistic missile defense destroyer, to the southern border.
Defense officials say the goal of deploying the Gravely is to secure the border and curb illegal immigration.
On March 15, the warship departed from the Naval Weapons Station Yorktown in Virginia, having previously served in the Middle East, shooting down Houthi missiles over the Red Sea.
“The deployment of Gravely marks a vital enhancement to our nation’s border security framework,” said Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Northern Command. “In collaboration with our interagency partners, Gravely strengthens our maritime presence and exemplifies the Navy’s commitment to national security and safeguarding our territorial integrity with professionalism and resolve.”
Defense officials didn't specify the Gravely’s exact destination, only that it will operate in U.S. and foreign waters.
A U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment team will be on board the Gravely.
The deployment of the Gravely follows President Donald Trump’s January executive order, establishing a national emergency at the southern border.
“USS Gravely’s deployment will contribute to the U.S. Northern Command southern border mission as part of the DOD’s coordinated effort in response to the Presidential Executive Order,” said Gen. Gregory Guillot, commander of the U.S. Northern Command. “Gravely’s sea-going capacity improves our ability to protect the United States’ territorial integrity, sovereignty, and security.”
