U.S. Aircraft Carrier Reloads Bunker Busters Amid Signs of Potential Re-strikes on Iran: WSJ

Amid speculations that the U.S. administration under Donald Trump could launch re-strikes against Iran following the U.S. midterm elections, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported from the scene on October 24 (local time) that the U.S. aircraft carrier USS George Washington, currently deployed in Middle Eastern waters, is actively replenishing its weapons, including bunker-buster bombs.

WSJ visited the USS Washington operating in the Arabian Sea to observe nighttime carrier-aircraft takeoffs and landings as well as at-sea replenishment operations, stating that "there are signs that the aircraft carrier could launch a larger-scale attack against Iran."

The USS Washington was deployed from Japan to the Arabian Sea in the Middle East last August, replacing the USS Abraham Lincoln, which had operated in the Middle East for over nine months.

Approximately 5,000 personnel are currently serving aboard the USS Washington.

While the carrier is currently focused on missions to blockade Iranian ports and protect commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, it is also conducting large-scale resupply operations on a daily basis.

WSJ explained that the USS Washington is bringing in massive amounts of standoff missiles, which strike targets outside the enemy's range, as well as bunker-buster bombs designed to penetrate underground targets.

Commander Brian Garcia, a U.S. Navy officer responsible for ordnance operations and weapon management on the USS Washington, said, "We are also bringing in other supplies that we expect to be needed, whatever mission lies ahead."

He added, "This is the readiness we have built. Because we are already prepared, there is no need to step up preparations separately."

Captain Nicholas Delio, commanding officer of the USS Washington, also emphasized, "We always remain vigilant and focused on the surrounding situation, and we are ready to respond, whether reactively or preemptively."

President Trump previously stated that he would not attack Iran before the midterm elections on November 3, but during a midterm campaign rally in Fort Myers, Florida, the previous day, he hinted at the possibility of a re-strike, saying, "We could do another little 'Operation Praying Mantis'."

The U.S. Department of Defense stated that it is the military's duty to present various attack options to the president.

Officials said no decisions have been made yet, according to WSJ.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.