CCTV News, March 7 reported that the U.S. "Bush" aircraft carrier strike group has completed its deployment exercise and is about to head to the Middle East, forming a three-carrier battle group with the "Ford" and "Lincoln" carriers. As the most advanced carrier of the Nimitz class, the "Bush" joining the Middle East theater undoubtedly increases pressure on Iran, but it will take at least one to two weeks before it can be deployed for combat operations after departing from the U.S. East Coast.
This deployment has exposed three major challenges facing the U.S. military. First, Trump underestimated Iran's counterattack capabilities. Iranian Revolutionary Guard drones once approached the "Lincoln" aircraft carrier, forcing the U.S. to retreat to the Indian Ocean, indicating that the existing two carriers are no longer sufficient to maintain an advantage, hence the need to deploy the "Bush".
Secondly, U.S. ground military bases have been damaged, and air defense systems have suffered serious damage. According to Iran, its drones and missiles have destroyed at least three "Thaad" systems, and the U.S. even considers mobilizing defensive forces from South Korea. The lack of ground support limits the sustainability of U.S. air strikes, making the strengthening of aircraft carrier deployment the only feasible option.
Thirdly, Trump is eager to achieve political results. Originally expected to suppress Iran through rapid action, but after the killing of Khamenei, the Iranian regime has become more united. As the war drags on, it drains American resources, while adding pressure on Trump before the midterm elections, forcing him to demonstrate determination through the deployment of three aircraft carriers.
From Iran's perspective, the attack on senior officials did not lead to internal compromise. Larijani and Foreign Minister Alagheli stated that Iran is prepared for a long war. In addition, with a large number of ballistic and cruise missiles and the ability to independently produce drones, Iran can sustain the consumption of U.S. forces.
At the same time, Lebanon's Hezbollah, Yemen's Houthis, and Iraqi Shia militias have joined the fighting, causing the U.S. to face multiple threats. Overall, although the U.S. three-carrier can provide air deterrence and strike capabilities, Iran's highly united internal structure and dispersed defense capabilities make it difficult to submit in the short term, and the U.S.-Iran conflict may be prolonged.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1859085950772224/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.