The U.S. military has deployed the USS Gravely, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, to assist with border security efforts as illegal maritime crossings increase. The move is part of a larger crackdown on smuggling operations that have adapted to stricter land-based enforcement.
On Saturday, the USS Gravely departed from Virginia, carrying a specialized U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) to assist in identifying and intercepting illicit maritime activity. Officials say the ship’s deployment enhances the government’s ability to protect U.S. territorial waters.
We are finally stopping this DESTRUCTIVE INVASION ON OUR BORDER:
– Trump just deployed a Navy Destroyer Ship to the Border to deter illegals from crossing
– DHS announced SEVEN new miles of border wall in ArizonaIllegal entries HAVE GONE DOWN BY 95%! pic.twitter.com/M7SbrJMn9X
— Chad Prather (@WatchChad) March 17, 2025
“The mission is clear — prevent illegal incursions by sea and disrupt transnational criminal organizations,” said Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell. “We are ensuring that every avenue of illegal entry is addressed with the full force of the U.S. government.”
Guided Missile Destroyer USS Gravely heads to AMERICA'S southern border on 'Presidential executive order' — NorthCom
Gravely previously shot down Houthi cruise missile in Red Sea in 'closest encounter' yet from Yemeni attack
Is Trump dead serious on illegals? pic.twitter.com/V45GYOsIF5
— DocReQ (@DocReQIsBack) March 16, 2025
Border Patrol and Coast Guard officials have reported a surge in attempted crossings by water, driven by traffickers looking to bypass increased restrictions at land entry points. Recent apprehensions include individuals from adversarial nations, prompting security concerns from defense officials.
The USS Gravely’s recent deployment marks a shift in military involvement in border security. Traditionally, the Coast Guard has handled such operations, but the Pentagon’s decision to deploy a Navy warship highlights the administration’s aggressive approach to securing U.S. borders.
🚨NEW: Pentagon deploys Navy destroyer to secure Southern Border.
The USS Gravely, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer recently deployed to the Middle East, departed Saturday to secure the U.S. southern border.
I can’t imagine why.
Tick-tock cartels.
— Walter Curt (@WCdispatch_) March 17, 2025
The destroyer, which was recently stationed in the Red Sea to counter Houthi missile attacks, brings advanced tracking and surveillance capabilities to assist with interdictions. While no timeline has been given for how long it will remain in the area, officials say the presence of a Navy warship will significantly impact smuggling operations.
The Trump administration has vowed to continue expanding its border security strategy, ensuring that land, sea, and air defenses are reinforced against illegal activity. The USS Gravely’s deployment is the latest in a series of measures aimed at preventing unauthorized entry into the U.S. and protecting national sovereignty.
