US Accelerates Marine Force Buildup — USS Boxer MEU Departs West Coast 3 Weeks Early

The United States accelerated its military buildup in the Middle East on Day 21, deploying USS Boxer (LHD-4) with a Marine Expeditionary Unit — approximately 2,200 Marines — departing the US West Coast 3 weeks ahead of its scheduled deployment. The accelerated departure, confirmed by three US officials to Reuters, signals CENTCOM assessed the threat environment as requiring additional amphibious assault capability beyond forces already conducting strikes on Iran. USS Boxer adds F-35B or AV-8B Harrier aviation, amphibious assault capability, and a self-contained Marine ground force — relevant for potential operations against Iranian coastal or island targets including Kharg Island (90% of Iran's oil exports), Iranian shore batteries threatening Hormuz, or humanitarian/evacuation contingencies.

Key facts

• •USS Boxer (LHD-4) + Marine Expeditionary Unit (~2,200 Marines) departing West Coast 3 weeks early
• •Three US officials confirmed to Reuters — one on condition of anonymity
• •Adds amphibious assault, aviation (F-35B/AV-8B), and ground-assault capability to Middle East
• •Amphibious capability relevant for potential Kharg Island, Hormuz shore battery, or coastal operations
• •Poland simultaneously evacuated military contingent from Iraq citing "deteriorating security situation"