Marines and Sailors assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) are returning home in waves after successfully completing an extended eight-month deployment aboard the HII-built amphibious warships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/6th Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet areas of operations.

The BATARG is comprised of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) and the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), which were both built at Ingalls, and the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), which was built at Avondale.

Since leaving for deployment in July 2023, BATARG has been supporting operations in the U.S. Central Command after attempts were made by Iran to threaten the free flow of commerce in the Arabian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. 

For more than 85 years, Ingalls shipbuilders have served as the backbone of our nation’s defense, building ships that project power, maintain peace and safeguard seas across the globe. We remain committed to this important work, knowing that THEIR Mission is OUR purpose.

Read more about the BATARG’s mission here: 26th MEU(SOC) and BATARG to Return Home After an 8 Month Deployment > United States Marine Corps Flagship > Press Release Display (marines.mil)

 

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