The USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier could remain deployed in the Middle East for several more months as the US naval blockade of Iran continues, MS NOW reported.
According to audio of a November 9 town hall meeting at Naval Station Norfolk, reviewed by MS NOW, Navy leaders told the families of sailors aboard the carrier that their loved ones would not be home for the holidays and to prepare for a worst-case scenario of a 12-month deployment.
The carrier's commanding officer, Captain Justin Issler, informed the crew the following day that their deployment had been extended.
This is the second extension for the strike group since it left Norfolk on March 31 for what was supposed to be a standard six- to seven-month deployment. The group, which includes about 7,000 service members, arrived in the Middle East in April to relieve the USS Gerald R. Ford.
Navy leaders told families that Iranian forces continue to launch large numbers of one-way attack drones at American ships enforcing the blockade.
Asked what would bring the strike group home, Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao said: "The criteria is for them to agree to a non-nuclear Iran." He said the Bush had protected some 3,000 ships from attack. Aircraft from the carrier have flown more than 8,000 sorties as part of Operation Epic Fury, according to the air wing commander.
Navy officials said they are preparing the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, based in Norfolk, to eventually relieve the Bush. Families at the meeting also raised concerns about the strain of the extended deployment and conditions aboard the ship.
