US Deploys Fighter Jets and Helicopters to Support Commercial Ship Escort Mission
middleeasteye
The US began escorting commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz under 'Project Freedom,' backed by over 100 aircraft and 15,000 personnel. Navy fighter jets and Army helicopters were used to neutralize small Iranian vessels threatening trade.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that 'Project Freedom,' a mission announced by President Donald Trump, is underway with support from more than 100 aircraft and roughly 15,000 personnel. This move comes as the US begins escorting commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
CENTCOM added: 'US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets have launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is one of two aircraft carriers enforcing the blockade of Iranian ports while supporting Operation Freedom.'
According to CENTCOM: 'US Navy MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopters are supporting Operation Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding areas. Today, Sea Hawk helicopters, along with US Army AH-64 Apache helicopters, were used to neutralize small Iranian vessels threatening commercial activity.'
Images from CENTCOM show US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets launching from the USS Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln is one of two carriers enforcing the blockade of Iranian ports and supporting Operation Freedom. (Source: CENTCOM)
