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Pentagon Deploys Second Carrier Group Amid Iran Talks

2/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Pentagon deploys a second carrier group, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to the Middle East to press Iran amid talks.
U.S. President Donald Trump says the carrier group is a precaution if talks fail.
The USS Abraham Lincoln is already in the region after shooting down an Iranian drone.
Officials say the posture will not affect Caribbean capabilities and will keep U.S. interests protected.

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Story summary

The Pentagon deploys a second carrier group, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to the Middle East to press Iran amid talks.
U.S. President Donald Trump says the carrier group is a precaution if talks fail.
The USS Abraham Lincoln is already in the region after shooting down an Iranian drone.
Officials say the posture will not affect Caribbean capabilities and will keep U.S. interests protected.