The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (IWO ARG) with embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) transited the Suez Canal Jan. 10, 2015 entering the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO). While deployed to the region, Iwo Jima will conduct maritime security operations and participate in theater security cooperation exercises that help maintain conditions for security and promote regional stability.
U.S. 5th Fleet’s AOO encompasses about 2.5 million square miles and includes the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean.
The IWOARG, commanded by Capt. Timothy L. Schorr, commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8, is comprised of the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43).
The IWOARG and 24th MEU team will provide combatant commanders a versatile sea-based, expeditionary force that can be tailored to a variety of missions, including quick reaction crisis response options in maritime, littoral and inland environments in support of the nation’s maritime strategy.
“The Marines and Sailors of the IWO ARG/24th MEU team are ready to provide a flexible, adaptable and persistent force in the region,” said Schorr. “We are a highly capable team of professionals and we are ready to answer the call in this dynamic and challenging environment.”
Maritime security operations hone security skills in a maritime environment and assist in the development of counterterrorism and security protocols of allied nations in the region. Security forms the foundation from which stability arises, resulting in global economic prosperity.
These operations are designed and implemented to disrupt violent extremists’ illegal activities such as hijacking, piracy, weapons smuggling and human trafficking.
Press Release