The Biden-era policies that left the southern border vulnerable are now being reversed in dramatic fashion, as President Donald Trump has deployed a U.S. Navy destroyer to bolster security efforts. The USS Gravely, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, is now en route to waters near the U.S.-Mexico border, where it will assist in intercepting smugglers and preventing illegal maritime crossings.
The warship, which previously defended against Houthi missile attacks in the Middle East, departed from Virginia on Saturday. It carries a Coast Guard law enforcement detachment that will conduct ship seizures and assist in enforcement operations at sea.
We are finally stopping this DESTRUCTIVE INVASION ON OUR BORDER:
– Trump just deployed a Navy Destroyer Ship to the Border to deter illegals from crossing
– DHS announced SEVEN new miles of border wall in ArizonaIllegal entries HAVE GONE DOWN BY 95%! pic.twitter.com/M7SbrJMn9X
— Chad Prather (@WatchChad) March 17, 2025
“USS Gravely’s deployment will contribute to the U.S. Northern Command southern border mission as part of the DOD’s coordinated effort in response to the Presidential Executive Order,” said Gen. Gregory Guillot, Commander, U.S. Northern Command.
Guided Missile Destroyer USS Gravely heads to AMERICA'S southern border on 'Presidential executive order' — NorthCom
Gravely previously shot down Houthi cruise missile in Red Sea in 'closest encounter' yet from Yemeni attack
Is Trump dead serious on illegals? pic.twitter.com/V45GYOsIF5
— DocReQ (@DocReQIsBack) March 16, 2025
The Pentagon explained that the destroyer’s role includes disrupting transnational crime, maritime terrorism and human smuggling operations. Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell emphasized the necessity of maritime security, saying, “It’s equally important to control our territorial waters, and this deployment directly supports U.S. Northern Command’s mission to protect our sovereignty.”
🚨NEW: Pentagon deploys Navy destroyer to secure Southern Border.
The USS Gravely, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer recently deployed to the Middle East, departed Saturday to secure the U.S. southern border.
I can’t imagine why.
Tick-tock cartels.
— Walter Curt (@WCdispatch_) March 17, 2025
The Trump administration’s decisive action follows an increase in illegal crossings by sea. With land-based security tightening under Trump’s leadership, smuggling networks have sought alternative routes. Coast Guard officials recently noted a rise in boats carrying migrants from nations including Russia, China and Pakistan.
While some critics question whether a warship is necessary, military officials defend the decision, pointing to the destroyer’s speed, advanced radar capabilities and ability to operate for extended periods without refueling. The USS Gravely is seen as a deterrent to those attempting to exploit the southern border’s maritime routes.
