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US Navy Plans Floating Special Ops Base
2012.01.27
The United States Navy plans to deploy a floating special operations 'mothership' into the Persian Gulf, it was revealed today.
The USS Ponce (LPD 15), an amphibious transport dock ship which was planned for decommision in December this year, will be repurposed as a mobile base of operations for Navy SEALs and Special Boat Teams. Both boats and helicopters will be able to operate from the ship.
The US Central Command has sought a floating base for special operations in the Middle East for some years. Rising tensions with Iran may have contributed to the decision to go ahead with the plans. It is thought the USS Ponce will be ready for its new role in 5-6 months time.
USS Ponce is an amphibious transport dock ship. It was most recently used during operations in Libya. It can support small boat and helicopter operations.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman/Released
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