Iran has struck radar systems, satellite communications and mission-critical aircraft at US bases across Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Some military and defense experts argue the Independence-class littoral combat ship equipped with the MCM mission package falls short of its predecessor.
“There has been no decision to send ground troops at this time, but President Trump wisely keeps all options at his disposal," a White House official said.
By Phil Stewart, Idrees Ali, Erin Banco and Gram Slattery, Reuters