Navy sending USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group to the Middle East amid tensions with Iran
by Mike Glenn · The Washington TimesThe Navy is sending a third aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East for what is expected to be an extended deployment amid rising tensions with Iran.
The USS Theodore Roosevelt left its San Diego home port without fanfare Sunday. It is deploying to the U.S. Central Command region where it is expected to replace the USS George Washington.
The Japan-based Washington arrived in the Middle East in August 2026 to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln, which spent more than 250 days at sea supporting operations related to the U.S. conflict with Iran.
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The Lincoln’s extended deployment led to reports of low morale and supply strain for about 5,000 crew members aboard the aircraft carrier, which prompted the decision to shift the Washington from the Pacific theater.
Prior to the departure of the Roosevelt, Adm. Daryl Caudle, the Chief of Naval Operations, and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Perryman posted a video about the preparations to make sure it didn’t run out of supplies and suffer the Lincoln’s fate.
“Roosevelt is maximizing its loadout of food, retail products, and hygiene items before getting underway,” Adm. Caudle said. “We’re also focused on quality of life. That means new entertainment equipment on the mess decks, more durable fitness equipment, spare cardio machines ready for replacement and even holiday materials purchased ahead of time.”
Master Chief Perryman said the crew is converting unused spaces aboard the Roosevelt into additional storage to increase its ability to remain self-sufficient for longer periods.
“Especially when resupply may be difficult,” he said.
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The Norfolk-based USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier has been operating in the Middle East for about six months.
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